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Follow These Preventive Measures to Keep Backyard Fires Under Control
8/8/2022 (Permalink)
If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Lowell
There is no better way to enjoy a warm summer evening than relaxing by the fire with your family in your backyard. Scary stories, hot dogs and s’mores are just a few ways to make some unforgettable memories.
We use these backyard fires for a variety of reasons, including entertaining, cooking a meal, keeping mosquitoes away and clearing yard debris, but even what we believe to be a safe fire has its own set of risks. According to the National Park Service, people are responsible for almost 85% of wildfires.
Wildfires in Massachusetts seem to be growing, with 1,000 wildfires occurring in 2021. Most of these fires are manmade, but some of them can be caused by conditions like lightning.
Of course, you’re still able to burn your yard debris, light up your tiki torches, toast your marshmallows and grill your hotdogs. As long as you follow simple safety precautions and local regulations allow, you can continue to enjoy your backyard fires and minimize any hazards.
Any open flame can be hazardous, but campfires, barbecues, fire pits and fireworks are all common causes of outdoor fires. Approximately 8,800 house fires are started by grills each year, usually due to irresponsible usage. Double-check the propane tanks and gas lines that fuel your grill before firing it up, and never leave your grill unsupervised, even after you’re done using it.
When constructing a campfire, find a safe area away from any trees or buildings, and only light your fire with a match or a lighter. Once the fire is lit, make sure to only use wood to fuel the flames and keep a close eye on the ashes even after you’re done making your s’mores.
Fire pits are a safe and easy way to create a camp-like feel in your own backyard, but this equipment should be used with the same precautions as a conventional campfire. If your fire pit is portable, be sure to locate it in a safe area. Your fire pit should never be placed near an area with an overhang or on a wooden deck.
While your fire pit may seem like a simple way to eliminate construction or trash, make sure to only burn approved firewood.
Even with their hazards, combustible materials and fires can still be put to good use. If your yard collects a large number of leaves in the fall and you don’t have a waste disposal option, burning your yard debris may be the only way to tidy up your yard.
In Lowell, open burning is prohibited at all times, but you can still use your grills and fire pits. Of course, this equipment should only be used for recreational purposes and should never be used to burn debris.
We all utilize our sheds and garages to store items like gasoline, but irresponsible storage can have a deadly impact. Gas should only be stored in approved containers, and you should keep your container out of reach of children. Also, gas should only be used for its intended purpose, so don’t reach for the gas can if you are unable to light your campfire.
Before lighting any outdoor fire, check your local weather forecast and local regulations. If conditions are dry or if heavy winds are blowing, reschedule your weenie roast and light your fire on a different day.
And if your home is impacted by an outdoor fire, contact our team at SERVPRO. Our team is trained to restore any kind of fire damage and will work to restore as much of your property and belongings as possible.
Burn safely outdoors. And save some chocolate for us! If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact us today to get restoration started faster.