Fire-related incidents are responsible for thousands of deaths and injuries each year, as well as millions of dollars in property damages. The best way to stop a fire is to prevent it from starting in the first place. Consider these five summer fire safety tips to greatly reduce your risk of a fire taking hold of your home. Using caution, campfires, cookout grills and more can be safely enjoyed all summer long.

1. Be Smart With the Grill:

Grilling is a wonderful way to enjoy the summer, but keep in mind that nearly 17,000 patients are admitted to an emergency room each year due to grill-related injuries. To grill safely, only use your grill outdoors, make sure it’s never left unattended, and keep all kids and pets at least four feet away from the designated grill area. After you cook and the grill has cooled down, make sure you clean it properly to avoid grease buildup. Too much accumulated grease can become a fire hazard.

2. Inspect Your Alarms

One of the best fire prevention methods is to consistently check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Your smoke detector can only warn you if it’s working. If your system isn’t hardwired replace any dead batteries in your detectors and test any alarm to ensure that it is functioning properly. Professional alarm companies offer 24/7 fire alarm monitoring and systems expertly designed for your space. Consider home fire alarm services to make sure your system is as up-to-date and as safe as possible. 

3. Build Smarter Campfires

Never build a fire near dried grass or leaves where it can spread. Instead, use or build a proper fire pit to contain your fire. Be prepared with water and a shovel to douse the fire if it looks like it’s going to get out of hand, or if you’re simply done with it for the evening. Use a mixture of water and dirt to ensure the fire is completely extinguished before you leave it. Never leave a fire unattended

4. Be Fire Smart While You Travel

Make sure that any hotel or motel you choose to stay in while traveling has a functioning sprinkler system and working smoke detectors. Read over the room’s fire safety instructions and know where the nearest exits are. Check in with the front desk staff with any questions about their fire protocols and procedures.

5. Protect Your Home From Summer Wildfires

Nearly all wildfires are started by people, according to the US Department of the Interior. While you can’t control what someone else does, you can practice behavior in your own family that greatly reduces the risk that a wildfire will start on or near your property. Take time each week to clear out any dry brush or other flammable materials that may have accumulated on your land.

In case a fire does strike, make sure all members of your family know where and how to safely exit your home. If a nearby wildfire forces you to evacuate, have an emergency kit packed with enough water, food, and medical supplies for at least three days ready to grab and go.

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