Fire is only nice when it’s used for grilling and bonfires, both of which are common this season. Summer is a great time to get together with friends and hold outdoor events, but these events can turn in the wrong direction if proper safety precautions are not followed. Here are some safety tips for these fire-related activities to avoid fire damage in Pittsburgh, PA.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 8,800 home fires are caused by grilling. The NFPA offers some tips on fire safety when you’re looking to grill:
- First and foremost, keep your grill outdoors.
- Keep your grill away from flammable material, including deck railings and outdoor decorations.
- Grills should always be out of reach from children and pets.
- Always clean your grill and remove built up grease for the next use.
Propane grills and charcoal grills can both cause fires, but safety precautions for each are needed. Be sure to test your grill before the summer grilling season begins to make sure it is working properly.
If you’re looking to use the cool nights to invite friends to a bonfire, do it safely, as this fire safety website states. Build your bonfires in a safe location away from anything that could catch fire. Make sure your guests are at a safe distance away from the fire and children are supervised at all times. Learn how to safely extinguish a bonfire in case of an emergency, and pour water on the leftover embers before leaving the bonfire at the end of the night.
In addition, be careful with fireworks, sparklers, and anything else you use this summer that could catch fire. If your plans to have a grill-out or bonfire this summer turn ugly, be sure to call the experts in Pittsburgh for fire damage restoration: ServiceMaster Complete Restoration by Stiffey. Because disaster has no respect for time, our team can be contacted on our 24/7/365 hotline.