24/7 Emergency ServiceTips and Tricks for Controlling Your Bonfires | SERVPRO of Reno Southwest
9/18/2023 (Permalink)
Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Reno Southwest has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.
We may not want to think about it, but the cold weather is coming. The heat and sun of the summer lasted a long and glorious time, but it is time to wind down and start getting ready for the fall and winter months. That means decorations, pumpkin spice and cozier nights hanging out by the bonfire.
This time of year can be a great season to enjoy outdoor fires, but it can also easily lead to serious fire situations if you aren’t careful about controlling your flames.
Our SERVPRO® of Reno Southwest team explains some easy steps to follow below in order to enjoy your smores and campfire stories without the worry of starting an out-of-control blaze.
Do choose a smart and safe location for your fire. Permanent fire pits can’t be easily moved, but you can ensure the ground is free from debris and your log or brush piles are moved a safe distance away. Portable pits should be set up far away from your house, garage or any outbuilding and should be placed on a level surface.
Do keep water close by for emergencies. A bucket full of water or a hose that is turned on and ready can help you douse your flames quickly if needed. If you are in an area that doesn’t have easy access to water, keep a shovel handy so you can shovel sand or dirt over the flames to extinguish them.
Do watch out for any changing weather conditions and keep an eye out for burn bans. Fire conditions can change daily and strong wind or worsening drought conditions can make even the smallest fires dangerous. Check the local burn ban regulations before even heading outside.
Don’t use gas, lighter fluid or any sort of accelerant to get your fire going or to revive it. Yes, those substances are really flammable, but they are also really unpredictable in an uncontrolled setting like that. Stick with tinder, matches and lighters.
Don’t let your kids or pets play near the flames, and never leave them unattended near your fire pit. Severe burns can happen in seconds or a curious child can easily spread the fire outside of the fire pit.
Don’t let your fire get too large. Tall flames are harder to control, and a fire can start spreading too fast for you to keep up.
Don’t leave your fire pit for the evening until your flames are completely extinguished. Pour water over the logs until everything is cold to the touch.
Wildfires are caused by all kinds of things, and unfortunately, humans are responsible for most of the causes. Do your part by being responsible with whatever fires you start and by obeying any burn regulations. A single spark is sometimes all it takes for entire communities to be affected.
If a wildfire or bonfire gone rogue damages your home, our fire damage restoration team is here for you. We will respond quickly and efficiently to help you recover right away.
Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.