Bonfire weather is finally here! Establish rules and have a safety plan in place.
From camping trips to backyard marshmallow roasting, bonfires have always been a popular way to enjoy the season. Follow these tips to keep your family safe:
Check your local weather advisory.
Before you even get the logs or propane out, it’s important to check what kind of weather you can expect. The direction and strength of the wind can really be the deciding factor in how you plan your bonfire.
Have a safety plan in place.
Fire is … well, fire. By its nature, fire can be extremely unpredictable. That’s why you’ll feel much more at ease and relaxed if you’re prepared for any fire-related emergencies.
Make sure you have one or more of the following:
- Free-flowing water and/or a fire extinguisher. If a bonfire gets out of control, time is of the essence.
- Sand. It may be a good idea to use sand as your bonfire’s base, as it will help regulate the fire’s heat.
- A cell phone for calling 911. We all enjoy unplugging in the great outdoors. But if you’re at a remote campground, you should still make sure you have a phone or emergency personnel nearby.
Besides having a plan to put out a fire quickly, be sure to also have a fire-aid kit or bandages nearby to treat a minor burn from any stray ashes.
Keep a safe distance from the fire.
When choosing the ideal spot for your fire, having enough breathing room is key (literally). You don’t want the fire pit to be too close to your house or tent. This may depend on what state you’re in, but the general rule is to have your fire 21 feet away from your home.
The fire you’re building will warm you even from 3 feet away — which is the recommended distance between children, pets and flammable furniture and the fire pit. When prepping your kids for the bonfire, lay out a clear “safety zone” that they need to stay within (you could even extend it beyond 3 feet).
Don’t wear highly flammable materials.
Especially for young children who are eager to wear their princess or superhero costumes, it’s important to have somewhat of a dress code when gathering around the fire. Certain materials like nylon, polyester and linen tend to be more flammable than fabrics like wool.
Don’t leave a fire unattended.
Whether you’re at a campsite or in your backyard, never turn your back on a live fire. Throughout your party or event, make sure someone is always watching it closely. And when it’s time to call it a night, make sure it’s really out. Even leaving the tiniest flame going can set nearby things on fire.
Even though fire can pose many risks, there’s a safe way to enjoy a bonfire with the family. The key thing to remember is to always pay attention — to your kids and the fire — and have safety precautions in place.
Credit: Cleveland Clinic