How to Ensure a Safe and Enjoyable Fall Bonfire

11/1/2023 (Permalink)

Fall just might be the perfect time of year–it isn’t too cold but not too hot, and the leaf change in Nashville is an incredible sight to see. Unfortunately, fallen leaves and tree branches make for a more hazardous time of year when it comes to fires. While you can safely enjoy a fall bonfire, there are some precautions that you should take to ensure the safety of you, your loved ones, and the community. As fire damage restoration experts, we have seen the effects of fire damage and want you to avoid these risks! Here are some fire safety tips from our team at SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville. 

Bonfire Safety Tips

• Choose a level location for your bonfire and make sure all leaves, sticks, and other flammable objects are removed from the area before starting the fire. Also, ensure that you are at least 25 feet away from any buildings or structures, like a house or shed, and also from anything flammable such as bushes or trees. 
• Do not use gasoline or any other flammable liquids to start the bonfire. Opt for small sticks, branches, or pieces of newspaper to let the fire grow.
• Never leave a fire unattended! Always have an adult watching the fire, and keep children and pets at least three feet away from the flames at all times. Never leave them alone with the fire!
• Always keep a shovel and sand and/or a bucket of water nearby to put out the fire once you’re ready. It is imperative that you are absolutely sure the fire is completely out before leaving the area. Be sure that all of the embers are completely gone! 

Other Fall Fire Damage Risks

• Ignoring burn bans: Fall is an especially dry season, and to account for this, burn bans are issued via local news or weather apps when conditions are especially dry and windy. High or even moderate winds can carry embers and start a wildfire, so it is important to be aware of weather conditions before you consider starting a bonfire. 
• Holiday Decorations: While it is wonderful to be festive during this time of year, it is important to do so safely. Be sure to check decorative lights for safety certifications, and keep decor away from open flames or heat sources, such as light bulbs. Make sure that you aren’t overloading outlets during this time. 
• Candles: The fall and winter are the coziest time to use candles as long as you are doing so responsibly. Never leave a candle unattended, and keep it far away from any loose fabric or flammable materials. When you are done using the candle, be sure to use a candle snuffer to prevent hot wax from splattering. 
• Heating and Cooking: People are indoors, cooking more and heating their homes during the fall and winter. These situations can lead to house fires and are among some of the most common causes of them. Be sure to never leave heating devices or cooking unattended, and make sure that you keep flammable materials away from hot objects. 

Our SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville team wishes you a fun and safe start to your holiday season. We offer advice to prevent fire damage whenever possible, but we are also here to help in the unfortunate case of a fire. We can be reached at (615) 242-9391 or via our website for fire damage restoration services. 

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