Summer Fire Safety

Every year Americans look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor cooking. Knowing a few fire safety tips and following instructions will help everyone have a safe summer.

Fireworks Safety

The best way to protect your family is not to use fireworks at home - period. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends attending public fireworks displays and leaving the lighting to the professionals.

A special study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that fireworks were involved in an estimated 9,600 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2011. Fireworks are dangerous! For more information and safety tips, please visit the US Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov.

Barbecue Safety

• Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the venturi tubes - where the air and gas mix - are not blocked.
• Do not overfill the propane tank.
• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.
• Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
• Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately. Supervise children around outdoor grills.
• Dispose of hot coals properly - douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.
• Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas - carbon monoxide could be produced.
• Make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop and Roll in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 911 if a burn warrants serious medical attention.

Campfire Safety

• Build campfires where they will not spread, away from dry grass and leaves.
• Keep campfires small, and don't let them get out of hand.
• Keep plenty of water and a shovel around to douse the fire when you're done. Stir it and douse it again with water.
• Never leave campfires unattended.

Source: United States Fire Administration (USFA) www.usfa.fema.gov