Summer Fire Safety Tips

Nothing says summer like a late-night bonfire or a BBQ cookout with your friends and family. Before starting up your grill or lighting your campfire, it’s important that you are well informed about summer fire safety tips. Summertime is a peak time for grilling-related fires and injuries from other leisure activities.

Review these tips, then safely host a barbecue party or bonfire at one of these great locations for your friends and family.

The following fire safety tips are from The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

Summer BBQs:

  • Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
  • Keep children and your furry friends at least 3 feet away from the grilling area.
  • Clean your grills! Remove any grease, fat and buildup from the grill and trays.
  • Do not leave your grill unattended.

Propane Grills:

  • Make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
  • If you smell gas while grilling, do not move the grill. Instead, get away from the grill and call the fire department.
  • If the flame goes out, turn off the gas and grill and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting.

Charcoal Grills:

  • If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid.
  • If you use an electric charcoal starter, use an extension cord for outdoor use.
  • When you are finished grilling, let the coals cool before disposing of in a metal container.

Summer Campfires:

  • Make sure that campfires are permitted. Ask the local fire department if it is not clear.
  • Campfires need to be at least 25 feet away from anything that can burn.
  • Never leave the fire unattended. It only takes a few minutes for the fire to grow.
  • Keep the campfire small so it’s easy to control.
  • Have a bucket of water, hose, or a shovel and dirt or sand nearby to put out the fire.

To Avoid Summer Wildfires:

  • Keep your garden hydrated and maintained. Remove dead vegetation and dispose of them quickly.
  • Clear leaves and other debris from roofs, gutters, porches, and decks. Gardening with your kids is a great way to keep the family busy and active before school starts!
  • Remove flammable materials, such as woodpiles and propane tanks, within 30 feet of your home.
  • Maintain and prune trees so the lowest branches are 6 – 10 feet from the ground.
  • Replace or repair shingles or roof tiles to prevent ember penetration.

Beach Bonfires in San Diego:

  • All bonfires are restricted to designated fire rings.
  • Glass and alcoholic beverages are not permitted at any time.
  • Fires are not allowed between midnight at 5 AM.
  • Only wood, charcoal, or paper products may be used as fuel. The burning of trash is prohibited.
  • Before leaving the beach, the fire must be extinguished completely.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, July is the peak time for fires from grilling, followed by May, June, and August. Click here to download their safety sheets full of fire prevention tips!

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