Fall is a beautiful time of year, prompting friends and family to venture outside to enjoy time gathered around a fire, roasting marshmallows and telling stories. Whether your choice is a grill, smoker, bonfire or burn barrel, the primal pull of fire helps people bond as the summer heat begins to wane. Here a few tips to help you safely enjoy your fall.
Grills and Barbecues:
- Ensure your grill is set away from your home, garage, eaves and overhanging branches.
- Check grill gas tank hose for leaks before using.
- Avoid moving a hot grill.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
- Keep children and pets safely away from the grill area.
Bonfires and burn barrels:
- Review local ordinances; verify burn permit requirements.
- Have fire extinguishing equipment available garden hoses, fire extinguishers, rakes, shovels. (Flashlights, cell phones and first aid kits are handy.
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
- Make sure your outdoor gear (furniture, tools, mowers, etc.) is located at a sufficient distance from the fire.
- Do not use accelerants to start a fire.
- Avoid wearing flip-flops/walking barefoot near the fire.
- Never leave the fire unattended.
Properly extinguish the fire. In the wise words of Smokey Bear, "if it's too hot to touch, it's too hot to leave"
If a fire accidentally damages your property or a neighbor's, contact our office regarding coverage for damage under your homeowners insurance.