Campfires are a fun summer tradition for many, but campfires are not all fun and games. Without proper supervision and rules, a campfire can go from something fun to something dangerous quickly. Go through the following list each time you have a campfire to ensure that it remains a safe activity for all.
Starting a Campfire:
- Utilize a pit. Never build a campfire on free grass.
- Look around the area where you are going to start a fire and make sure it is not too dry. Embers or ash can be potentially hazardous on dry areas.
- Know what the fire risk is in your area.
- Throw matches into the fire or douse them with water after they are used.
- Use the minimum amount of lighter fluid necessary to get fire started and store safely after use. Advise those sitting around the fire to take a step back until lighter fluid has been lit properly.
Once the Campfire Is Lit:
- Keep water handy.
- Maintain a safe distance from your fire.
- Never leave the fire unattended.
- Do not let the fire get too big or it can become uncontrolled.
Putting Out the Campfire:
- Drown the campfire with water.
- Mix the ashes and embers with soil and water to make sure everything is wet.
- Check the campsite for sparks or embers.
- Wait until everything cools down before leaving the fire pit, if heat is still coming from the coals or ashes.
General Rules and Best Practices:
- Wear shoes around a campfire.
- Keep anything flammable away from the fire.
- Avoid campfires if you are intoxicated.
- Maintain a distance between your campfire and your house, garage or anything else that could be damaged by smoke, heat or an uncontrolled fire.
- Note the wind direction.
- Remain cautious of children around campfires.
- ALWAYS put out a campfire.
By following these tips, Hupy and Abraham is confident that you and your family will have a fun and safe summer. But in the unfortunate event that you or a loved one is injured while participating in a summer activity, due to the negligence of someone else, please contact Hupy and Abraham. Call 800-800-5678 for a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation today.