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Stay safe around grills, bonfires, sparklers and more

While the summer months can bring plenty of warmth, there are many outdoor activities using fire-heated products at your home that can turn up the temperature on fun. With these activities, however, also comes the need for extra levels of precaution. According to the American Burn Association, more than 400,000 people receive treatment from burn-related injuries each year.

Here are some tips to stay safe this summer – while enjoying the season.

 

Grilling

  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away from a grill while it is in use.
  • At the start of grilling season, check hoses of propane grills for leaks using soapy water. If any bubbles form, turn off the tank as you may have a propane leak.
  • Never leave your grill unattended.
  • After grilling with charcoal, let the coals cool and dispose of them in a metal container, which should be kept away from the house.

Campfires/bonfires

  • Check with your municipality to confirm rules around what you are permitted to do.
  • Watch forecasts to avoid having a fire when there are windy conditions that can turn a bonfire or campfire into a dangerous activity.
  • Avoid using accelerants to start or intensify a fire.
  • Keep a garden hose and/or large bucket of water on hand in case of an emergency.
  • To properly extinguish a bonfire, use a shovel to spread out the ashes to cool them down, douse with water and monitor for any remaining embers before disposing in a designated metal ash can.

Sparklers

  • Never hold more than one sparkler at a time.
  • Keep at arm’s length away from your body.
  • Stay at least six feet away from others.
  • Once cooled, douse sparklers in water and dispose properly.

Fireworks

(If legal in your state and municipality only)

  • Keep a bucket of water handy, just in case.
  • Only light one at a time after ensuring it is pointed away from any bystanders.
  • Once lit, move quickly to a safe distance away from the fireworks.
  • Soak all used or malfunctioning fireworks before discarding. Never attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks.

Be sure to use common sense and lean towards safety with whatever you plan for your next summer outdoor adventure. If you're curious about more coverage options for your home, talk to an independent agent.

Contact an agent

 

Sources

National Fire Protection Association

Mosquito Magnet

American Pyrotechnics Association

Consumer Product Safety Commission