Summer Fire Safety
Estimated reading time: 49 minutes
As summer arrives, many of us eagerly anticipate spending more time outdoors. Whether it’s a family BBQ in the garden, a camping trip in the woods, or a day out in the countryside, summer activities often involve fire in some form. While these activities can be great fun, they also come with potential risks. In this blog article, we share essential fire safety tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe this summer.
BBQ Fire Safety
Barbecues are a summer staple, but they can quickly become dangerous if not handled properly. Here are some tips to ensure your BBQ is safe:
- Choose the Right Location: Set up your BBQ on a flat, stable surface away from sheds, trees, and overhanging branches. Ensure it is far from any garden furniture, especially items that could catch fire easily.
- Supervision is Key: Never leave a BBQ unattended. Keep children and pets at a safe distance, and always have someone keeping an eye on the fire.
- Lighting the BBQ: Use proper BBQ lighters or starter fluid if you’re using a charcoal BBQ. Never use petrol or other accelerants. If you’re using a gas BBQ, check for gas leaks before lighting by applying soapy water to the hose and connections. If you see bubbles, you have a leak.
- Handling Hot Surfaces: Be cautious when touching metal parts of the BBQ. Use proper utensils with long handles to avoid burns.
- Smoke: Cooking fatty meats or oil covered foods on a BBQ can quickly lead to a build-up of smoke, limiting visibility and startling the chef, or worse; causing burns.
- Extinguishing the BBQ: After cooking, ensure the BBQ is completely extinguished. For charcoal BBQs, allow the coals to burn out completely and cool down before disposal. For gas BBQs, turn off the gas supply and disconnect the cylinder.
Camping Fire Safety
Camping trips often involve campfires and portable stoves. To enjoy your camping experience without mishaps, follow these guidelines:
- Campfire Location: Build your campfire in a designated fire pit if available. If not, select a spot away from tents, overhanging branches, and dry grass. Clear the area around the fire of any flammable materials.
- Building the Fire: Start with small kindling and gradually add larger pieces of wood. Never use flammable liquids to start a fire. Ensure the fire is manageable and not too large.
- Maintaining the Fire: Keep a bucket of water or sand and a shovel nearby to control the fire if it spreads. Never leave the fire unattended and supervise children around the fire.
- Extinguishing the Fire: Before leaving the site or going to bed, fully extinguish the fire by pouring water over it, stirring the ashes, and pouring water again until no embers are glowing.
- Portable Stoves: Use portable stoves on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never use them inside tents or enclosed spaces due to fire and carbon monoxide risk.
Fire Safety in the Countryside
Wildfires can cause significant damage to the countryside and wildlife. When enjoying the great outdoors, consider the following precautions:
- Dispose of Cigarettes Properly: Ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and disposed of in designated bins. Never throw them on the ground, especially in dry areas.
- Glass and Litter: Take your rubbish with you, as discarded glass can magnify the sun’s rays and start a fire. Keep the countryside clean and safe for everyone.
- Controlled Fires: Only light fires in designated areas and ensure they are small and manageable. Be aware of local regulations and fire bans, especially during dry spells.
- Reporting Fires: If you see a fire or signs of one, such as smoke, report it immediately to the local fire service. Early reporting can prevent the fire from spreading and causing more damage.
- Awareness and Preparation: Educate yourself on the fire risks and local guidelines for the areas you plan to visit. Always have a plan for what to do in case of a fire.
Fire safety is crucial, especially during the summer when outdoor activities are at their peak. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can enjoy a safe and memorable summer. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. For more information on fire safety and training, visit our fire safety training courses here.
Stay safe and have a fantastic summer!
