Summer is officially here, and that means it’s time to have bonfires in our backyards – but not before making sure you’re sticking to these bonfire safety tips.
Bonfire Safety Tips Every Michigander Should Follow
Fire spreads quickly, which we know first-hand as one of Ann Arbor’s best fire damage restoration companies. Where – and how – you build your bonfire matters. Follow these simple guidelines to keep yourself and your neighbors safe:
- Let your neighbors know that you’re lighting a bonfire. (If you live near us, we’re always open to an invite!)
- Only burn dry material. Never burn damp material, which causes more smoke.
- Build your bonfire a good distance from sheds, fences, your home and nearby trees.
- Make sure there aren’t any cables (such as phone wires or electrical wires) near where you’re lighting the fire.
- Don’t use gasoline or any other fire accelerant to get the bonfire going – it can get out of control very quickly, and it could put you in harm’s way.
As a general rule, you should keep your bonfire at least five times its height away from your home, fences or sheds. If the fire’s going to burn 3 feet high, it needs to be at least 15 feet from any structure in every direction.
When your bonfire is burning:
- Keep at least one bucket of water (or preferably, a garden hose) nearby that you can reach in the event of an emergency
- Never leave a bonfire unattended
- Keep kids and pets well away from the fire
- Never throw fireworks into the fire
- Don’t burn anything you shouldn’t, like canisters or any painted surfaces, because doing so could put your health at risk
- Spray the embers with water when you’re finished; that helps prevent the embers from reigniting themselves
Do You Need a Disaster Remediation Expert in Washtenaw County or Jackson County?
If your home has already been damaged, we can help. Check out our services and call 734-352-9183 for your free disaster remediation quote today. We offer:
