Autumn Fire Precautions | SERVPRO® of Darien/New Canaan

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Darien/New Canaan is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.

You feel it, don’t you? The brisk air in Darien, the lower humidity and the flirtation with your favorite light hoodie can only mean one thing: It’s fall again.

The season comes as such a relief after sweltering summers brings urges to camp and hike, run through piles of leaves and of course decorate with spooky pumpkins.

But each season requires its own look at fire safety, so before you light up those pumpkin candles and turn on the movie about the funny witch sisters, let’s remind ourselves about some fall fire safety.

Campfire Safety

Your choices about where and how to build your fire are as important as your attention to putting it out.

Start your fire at least 25 feet away from tents, structures or anything flammable. Use a regular lighter or matches to light your kindling, adding small sticks and tinder, then larger, dry wood.

[Never use kerosene or lighter fluid, which can quickly elevate a fire into something more dangerous and difficult to handle.

Don’t leave your fire unattended, and never leave your campsite until it’s been completely doused, right down to the last glowing ember.

Leaf Burning

Leaves are falling, which means you have decisions to make. You can have them hauled away, or you may choose to burn them yourself. Make sure to get a permit first.

It’s important to note that it’s both toxic and illegal to burn anything but organic yard waste such as leaves, sticks and clippings. Build your burn 50 feet from your house, and use a burn barrel if you have one. (Otherwise look for a dirt area and maintain your burn pile very carefully.)

Space Heaters

Portable space heaters may begin to come into play in cooler evenings or at the work desk, but be warned that these are one of the likeliest causes of home fires.

Only plug heaters directly into outlets, as they can overwhelm extension cords and cause short circuits. Use them only on level areas, away from anywhere kids may play. Ensure that they have a tip-over power down feature, and never leave them unattended or plugged in while you sleep.

Halloween

More on this next month, but as you decorate and prepare for fall holidays remember that any open flame is a hazard, including jack-o-lanterns, and almost all decor and costumes carry some risk of flammability.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.