Summer time, and the living is easy...it’s also easy to wreck your and everyone else’s summer with a fire caused by your barbecue grill or fireworks. Summer fire safety was the theme of the May 2007 Terrace Royale Blockwatch meeting.
Our guest speaker was Kirsten Clemens, Public Information Officer with the Bothell Fire Department. Ms. Clemens said that while fire hazards of all types occur year round, summer is the time for several types of specific dangers, most notably fireworks and barbecues. She presented a number of tips for keeping your outdoor activities safe.
Fireworks All fireworks, no matter how harmless they appear, pose a hazard if not used – and most importantly – disposed of properly. Legal fireworks should only be discharged where local laws permit, where responsible adult supervision is available, and where precautions against an accidental fire have been taken. ‘Safe and sane fireworks" is a misnomer, according to Clemens – every year dozens of people in the state are injured or killed by supposedly safe fireworks. Most fireworks-related fires occur long after the festivities are over. Embers that fall in bushes or on roofs, or discharged fireworks thrown in the trash can smolder for hours before bursting into flames.
The absolute best means for avoiding fireworks fires is not to use them at all. But if you must use fireworks, only discharge them in open areas free from homes, businesses or other buildings. Avoid fields, woods or other areas with plants or trees that could catch fire. Always have fire extinguishing tools available, such as a garden hose, shovel, and fire extinguisher.
Never pick up a firework that has failed to go off. So-called "duds" are the source of many serious injuries. Soak all fireworks and firework debris in water before throwing them in the trash.
But make sure that fireworks debris are only disposed of after being soaked in water.
Barbecue Safety
The backyard barbecue is a summer institution. It’s also a potential fire hazard if basic precautions are not taken. Ms. Clemens offered some great tips:
· Never pour lighter fluid, gasoline, or other flammable liquid on an open flame or hot coals
· Don’t wear loose-fitting clothing around the grill
· The barbecue should always be supervised by an adult; don’t let children play around the grill
· Always make sure coals are completely extinguished and are cool to the touch before throwing them away. Smoldering coals are a common source of trash fires
· Keep the grill well away from buildings or flammable materials when in use.
· Never use the grill in the garage, indoors or in other enclosed space.
By using a little caution and common sense, you can have both a fun and safe summer!
For more summer safety tips, check out the American Red Cross:
http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/sumsafety/ .
Written by Jim Tedofrd
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment