Summer is all about the outdoor activities like bonfires, grilling, and camping outside. This season is all about having fun and spending time outdoors which means knowing what is going on with the property. Here are some fire safety tips to help you have a safe and fun summer.
Safety Tips For Cooking Outdoors
It is always smart to cook in a well-ventilated area. Avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking outside as it can catch on fire or you can get burned. If the flames on the grill get too big, do not throw water onto the grill but cover and close off any ventilation to the grill to reduce the oxygen producing the flames. Never leave your grill unattended and keep pets and children at least three feet away for their safety.
Campfire Safety Tips & Tricks
When building your campfire, place it downwind from your tent with plenty of space in-between. Keep all flammable fluids away from your campfire and know how to Stop, Drop, and Roll. Avoid building big fires as it is they are harder to control and maintain. Never leave a campfire unattended. Do not let animals or kids alone around fires. If you need to put your fire out, first splash water on it, then cover it with ash and dirt and douse it with water again.
HVAC System
Your home or building’s HVAC system should be checked regularly, but especially when it’s time to get ready for the summer weather. The air conditioning unit will get a work out during the summer. During the check of your HVAC system, adjust thermostats as necessary for higher internal temperatures. If you notice frost build up, the help of a licensed HVAC company is necessary.
Water Spouts and Plumbing
You should always check your plumbing thoroughly, not just in the summer. During the summer, you can expect an increase in water usage, but the increase should not be due to leaky pipes. Start by checking any outdoor sprinkler systems for leaks. If there are standing puddles or areas of soggy soil, you may have a cracked pipe. High and low temperatures can also cause shifting in soil. If your septic system has lateral lines, this can lead to broken septic systems and standing water. Plumbing issues need to be handled immediately, especially if dealing with sewage leaks.
Fireworks are always hazardous so it’s best to: follow the directions and warnings for igniting fireworks, keep a safe distance once ignited, and keep a fire extinguisher and some water ready in case something goes wrong. Also, it is always smart to check up on your roof. If anything has happen, let your friends at Blue River Restoration be the ones to get your property back to pre-loss conditions so the rest of your summer can be a blast.