Summertime Fire Safety

The kids are out of school and it's time for summertime fun! For most families that means camping, grilling out and fireworks. However, these fun activities cause a lot of injuries and damage each year. How can you have fun with your family and be fire safe this summer? Here are a few summer fire safety tips:

GRILLING

• Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Supervise children and be sure they know how to "Stop, Drop and Roll."
• Check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line before using the grill.
• Do not wear loose clothing while grilling.
• Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire.

CAMPFIRES

• Rake leaves and pinestraw away from the area you build your campfire.
• Keep campfires small and manageable.
• Keep water and a shovel near by in case the fire starts to spread.

FIREWORKS

• The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays hosted by professionals who know how to safely handle fireworks.
• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
• Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
• Closely supervise children around fireworks at all times.