Bonfire Safety
Tuesday, October 1, 2019 Tammy Meng
Bonfires can be wonderful or disastrous. Let’s look at some helpful tips to keep us and our children safe.
Many people enjoy the warmer months by gathering with friends around a fire or toasting marshmallows with their families. If you’re planning on enjoying a bonfire this summer or fall, keep the following safety tips in mind.
Before you get started, check to see if there are any obstacles in the area that may prevent you from having a safe bonfire and pick a spot. This could be your backyard or someone else’s. To get your bonfire started, grab a bunch of dry twigs, leaves, sticks and unwanted wood. Do not use wet wood or you will have a smoky fire. Dig a shallow pit or you can purchase a bonfire pit from your local hardware store or Walmart. Be sure to let your neighbors know beforehand that you will be making a bonfire, if you are making it at home. Try to do the bonfire at a time that it will least affect your neighbors.
If you are digging a pit for your bonfire you will need to put bricks or stones around it to keep the fire from spreading beyond the pit. Arrange the wood, twigs or wood sticks in a standing pyramid and place dry leaves under it. To ignite the wood, use any fire igniter, such as lighters, and start the leaves on the under side of the fire first. Don’t use petrol or paraffin to get your bonfire going, it can get out of control quickly. Be sure to keep a bucket of water nearby or, if possible, a garden hose attached to a spicket. Keep your bonfire at a manageable size. Do not start a bonfire in windy or dry conditions.
Never leave children unattended at a bonfire. Do not leave the bonfire unattended and be conscientious of alcohol consumption. When everyone is done with the bonfire be sure to put out the fire.
By following these few safety tips, you can have a summer full of fun and safety around your bonfire!
Sources:
http://www.livingthecountrylife.com/
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