Responsible Backyard Fire Tips | SERVPRO® of New Center/Highland Park

Can you believe that it is already time to start thinking about and embracing the fall season? The summer months are always great in the Highland Park area, but there is just something special about the fall season in the Midwest.

The fall decorations, pumpkin spice, football Sundays and outdoor activities are all great ways to celebrate the changing seasons. One activity that can become cozier during this time are backyard bonfires.

Our SERVPRO® of New Center/Highland Park team wants you to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fall bonfires without the risk of starting a full blaze, so read on to learn more about simple fire safety techniques.

Safety Around Your Pit

Do choose a location that is a safe distance away from anything flammable. If your pit cannot be moved, simply make sure any brush piles or logs are moved a safe distance away and trim any overhanging trees in the area.

Do have water ready to use at a moment’s notice. A bucket filled with water or a hose turned on and kept close by are both good options. If you are in a remote area without easy access to water, keep a shovel near your fire pit so you can dump sand or dirt over any rogue flames.

Do obey any burn bans, and keep an eye on the weather conditions. Windy days or time periods that are extra dry are not great times to start a fire. Be sure the conditions are right (and legal) before pulling out your matches.

Maintaining Your Growing Fire

Don’t attempt to revive a dying fire with gas or lighter fluid. These substances are flammable, yes, but they are also unpredictable and could lead to a rapidly spreading fire in seconds.

Don’t let your kids play near the flames, especially if they are unsupervised. Accidents can lead to serious injury or a fire that escapes your pit.

Don’t allow your fire to get too big. Tall flames are much harder to control than smaller ones, so keep your fire small and manageable.

Don’t go inside until a responsible adult has extinguished the fire. This includes soaking the logs and the embers with water until everything is cold to the touch.

The Truth About Wildfires

Wildfires can start in all kinds of ways, and while nature can be responsible for some of those situations, the unfortunate fact is that most wildfires are human-caused. In order to reduce your risk of starting one, always be near the flames and don’t let your fires grow too large too fast.

We know that fire is unpredictable and can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us immediately for a fast and thorough fire damage restoration.

Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.