Bonfire Safety Tips to Avoid Fire Damage in Lake Zurich

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Please follow SERVPRO tips for a safe bonfire gathering in Lake Zurich--prevent fire damage to your property and injury to yourselves

SERVPRO is Available to Help if Your Bonfire Gets Out of Control and Causes Damage

Fall is upon us and for many people that means bonfires. It is the perfect season to get a bonfire going in the yard of your Lake Zurich home and invite friends over for s’mores, hot beverages, and potatoes baked in the embers. Unfortunately, many people do not realize how dangerous bonfires can be. A bonfire that gets out of control can spark a blaze in your outbuildings or even your home. That is why SERVPRO recommends the following safety tips to avoid fire damage this fall season.

Choosing the right location is essential in order to avoid fire damage in Lake Zurich. If you have a huge yard, you can build your fire in a secluded area. However, for most people, a fire pit is a much safer option. Build or place your pit in a clear well-ventilated area, at least ten feet away from any structures. Make sure there is room to sit beside it without getting too close to the flames.

Start and finish your bonfire safely. Start with crumpled paper and small sticks, and progress to larger pieces of wood as the flames take hold. Do not use lighter fluid or gasoline as these can accelerate the blaze out of control. When it is time to wind down for the evening, let the fire burn down, and then carefully spread the ashes out and pour water on them slowly. Check for any remaining embers before going back indoors.

Check the weather – do not host your fall get-together on an evening when the breeze is high. The wind quickly blows sparks onto surrounding buildings, trees, or even people. If necessary, move your gathering to another night.

Always be mindful of children and pets. Teach kids the safest route to walk to and from the seating area, and keep an eye on them at all times. Put pets indoors if you can; if any pets are going to be out, fit them with glow-in-the-dark collars, and supervise them at all times.

Having a bonfire is terrific fun, and if you follow SERVPRO’s tips, it is very safe.

If you run into any problems with fire damage, call SERVPRO of Buffalo Grove / Lake Zurich at (847) 279-1940 for assistance.