Bonfire Safety Checklist

Bonfires are typically made during celebrations or for burning waste material. When building any type of fire, no matter how small, safety rules should always be followed first. Here are several important tips to stay safe around a bonfire:

• Bonfires should not be started if the wind gusts are greater than 16 kph.
• Bonfires should be built when fewer people are around to help prevent accidents or complaints.
• Bonfires must be started at a safe distance from properties, fences, cars, trees, etc. The minimum distance between a bonfire and a building should be 5 times the height of the bonfire.
• Those who are hosting a bonfire should make sure no cables or wires are above the bonfire spot before building it.
• Only dry wood and materials should be used to build and sustain the fire. Wet or damp materials will release much more smoke when lit.
• Gas or other flammable liquids should never be used for building or maintaining a bonfire to prevent accidental fires or burn-related injuries.
• Those who are maintaining the fire should never burn tires, plastic items, spray bottles, or anything that may produce toxic fumes or that may explode.
• Water should be kept nearby in case of an accidental fire. A few buckets of water or a garden hose connected to a water supply ought to be sufficient.
• Bonfires should always be supervised and kept under control using long and sturdy tools.
• Children and pets should not be allowed to go near a bonfire. If a dog becomes agitated near a bonfire, it should be put on a leash or brought inside.
• Once the fire is out, it should be extinguished completely with plenty of water.        

More general fire safety information can be found in this article. The best practices for protecting homes from wildfires are available here. The PuroClean team stands ready to provide professional restoration services to any property affected by fire, water or mould damage.

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