Essential Summer Fire Safety Tips
Summer can bring a welcome break from the normal routine, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, family get-togethers and even holidays. The warmer temperatures and longer days present these additional opportunities for fun, but they are also the cause of fire risks too.
While summer can be a fun and jam-packed season, it also needs to come with a heightened awareness of fire safety especially in regards to outdoor occasions, barbeques and even summer trips. Whether you’re having a campfire on the beach, hosting a family barbeque or relying on multiple electrical appliances during a heat wave, the risk of fires can increase during this time.
At Nomico Fire & Security, we offer an array of fire safety installations and maintenance to help domestic and commercial premises protect themselves. From fire extinguishers to fire alarms, we can help support your premises and protect you from the risk of fires.
In this guide, we are sharing essential summer fire safety tips for whatever the season brings, helping you stay safe while having fun.
The Importance of Summer Fire Safety
Summer is synonymous with outdoor activities, many of which involve the use of open flames. From barbecues to campfires, the risk of accidental fires increases significantly during this time and therefore summer fire safety needs to be a top priority.
While this can be a fun and exciting season, offering a welcomed break from the daily routine and a chance to unwind with loved ones, the risks cannot be ignored. Being able to understand the importance of summer fire safety allows you to protect yourself, loved ones and others enjoying the same areas while also having a great time.
Summer fire safety needs to be understood and implemented by everyone to prevent property damage, injuries, and environmental harm.
Increased Fire Risks in the Summer
Summer is a great season for many, but the increased temperatures, longer days and hours spent outdoors can contribute to more fire risks. Although you may just want to use this time to unwind and forget your worries, you still need to be responsible and implement measures for summer fire safety as much as possible.
There are increased fire risks that this season brings, due to several factors such as:
Dry Conditions
Hot, dry weather can turn grass and foliage into tinder, and a single spark can ignite a fire that quickly spreads. Although barbeques and campfires are popular during the summer, they do come with an increased risk of spreading because of the weather conditions.
Spending time outdoors can be fun, but you do need to remain vigilant and continue to take precautions to prevent a fire from spreading. A fire can ruin more than just your day, as it can also impact the health and safety of people around you and have a permanent impact on the environment.
Increased Outdoor Cooking
Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors and this is the perfect season to fire up the barbecue and enjoy some home-grilled food. However, barbecues and outdoor kitchens can pose fire hazards if not managed properly and these can quickly become disastrous.
Although outdoor cooking can be a great way to spend more time in the sun and host gatherings with loved ones, you do need to increase your summer fire safety to prevent issues.
Bonfires, Campfires and Fire Pits
As the sun begins to set, it is common for people to light fires so they can continue to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you have a designated fire pit or are setting a fire on the beach or at a camping site, you need to be careful to prevent them from spreading.
All forms of open fire require careful supervision and adherence to local regulations to prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
Electrical Use In Hot Weather
It is common for electric outlets and plugs to overheat, especially if they are powering more than one device. With the increased temperatures and dry conditions the summer brings, there is a great fire risk posed with your everyday appliances.
Additional steps should be taken, especially during a heatwave, to prevent electrical fires and keep your home safe, cool and comfortable all summer long.
Essential Summer Fire Safety Tips for Outdoor Gatherings
During the warmer months, many of us look forward to spending time outdoors. Whether we are barbecuing with friends, or simply enjoying a beautiful sunset, there are plenty of opportunities to get outdoors during the summer and enjoy nature, quality time, and fun activities.
However, despite how fun outdoor activities offer, it’s crucial to be aware of potential fire hazards to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
These are practical and easily applicable steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during summer outdoor activities:
1. Plan Ahead and Be Prepared
Before hosting any outdoor event, take some time to inspect the area for potential fire hazards. This allows you to have greater control over the environment and reduce risks, such as fire spreading due to dry conditions.
You must clear an area if you are planning on lighting a fire or using a barbeque. This means keeping a zone clear of all debris and limiting the grass or foliage that may be present as these can quickly catch fire due to the dry conditions of summer.
Whether you are hosting a family barbeque or simply spending more time in the garden, it is a good idea to ensure all fire safety equipment is operational before inviting people over. Most homes, businesses and public spaces can benefit from the following:
- Fire Extinguishers: Fire extinguishers can be incredibly useful for a range of applications. For summer fire safety, keep them nearby and make sure everyone knows how to use them.
- Fire Alarms: If your gathering is near a structure, verify that fire alarms are functioning as this can alert you to any risk ahead of time. Regular maintenance is key to their reliability and testing should be done before hosting any event to ensure the safety of your guests and surrounding occupants.
2. Safe Barbecue Practices
Barbecuing is a summer staple, but it requires careful attention to avoid mishaps. While this can be a great excuse for al fresco dining and spending time with loved ones, you do need to take precautions to prevent fires from spreading and other fire hazards during this season.
When it comes to summer fire safety for barbeques, consider the following:
- Location: It is vital that you set up barbecues away from flammable materials. Before lighting, ensure the grill is on a stable, flat surface and not under low-hanging branches as these can quickly catch alight and cause fire to spread.
- Supervision: Never leave a lit barbecue unattended. Make sure to keep children and pets at a safe distance at all times, even when the flames are dying out as the charcoal will still be hot and can cause damage.
- Starting the Grill: Use proper tools to set the barbeque alight and never add lighter fluid to an already lit fire, as this can quickly get out of control. It is a good idea to opt for charcoal chimney starters as a safer alternative.
3. Campfire and Bonfire Safety
Warm summer nights often call for campfires or bonfires, where you can cuddle around the open flames and talk late into the night. This can be a wonderful experience for people of all ages, as long as summer fire safety tips are implemented.
You can ensure open fires remain safe by considering the following:
- Location: Much like with barbeques, choosing where you light the fire can play a big role in summer fire safety. You must choose a clear, open space for your fire. If you are in an open space, dig a pit and surround it with rocks to contain the flames.
- Size: Keep fires manageable in size at all times, as larger fires are harder to control.
- Extinguishing: Always fully extinguish fires before leaving the area or going to bed. You can stop the fire by dousing it with water. After the flames have died down, stir the ashes, and repeat this process until cool.
Summer Fire Safety For Trips and Holidays
Summer is the perfect opportunity to get away from it all and spend time in a new location. Whether you are going on an extended holiday or are simply taking a day trip to explore a new city, a hiking trail or visit friends, summer fire safety needs to be implemented.
There are several major risks that you need to consider when it comes to summer trips and preventing fires, such as:
1. Accommodation Precautions
Whether you are staying with friends, in a hotel or in private accommodation, you should ensure that there are fire safety precautions in place. While you may not be participating in risky behaviour, others in the same location or accommodation may be and you need to be protected at all times.
Wherever you are staying, take time to check:
- Fire Exits: Familiarise yourself with fire exits and emergency plans at your accommodation, as this will allow for a quick and safe evacuation in the worst-case scenarios.
- Smoke Detectors: Ensure smoke detectors are present and functional in your room and across the accommodation. Consider bringing a portable smoke detector for added peace of mind, especially if you have small children or those who need additional warning to evacuate.
2. Camping and Outdoor Adventures
Camping is a popular holiday type during the summer, as this is the best season to get outdoors.
Whether you are staying over on a camping site or simply spending the day outdoors, there are some summer fire safety steps you can implement to protect yourself, those around you and the surrounding environment:
- Campfire Safety: Follow the same campfire safety tips mentioned earlier for open fires, no matter where you are spending the summer. Many campsites provide specific rules and designated areas for campfires which you should adhere to for the utmost safety.
- Portable Stoves: Use portable stoves with care, ensuring they’re stable and placed away from tents and vegetation to prevent the fire from spreading.
- Take Fire Extinguishers: It is a good idea to invest in portable fire extinguishers if you are planning on camping, as these can help control and reduce flames should they get out of control. Make sure they are functional and tested before your trip.
Preventing Electrical Fires During Hot Weather
While a lot of the summer fire safety tips in this post are centred around outdoor events, there are still fire risks inside your home or business that need attention during this season.
Electrical fires can be devastating and are a high risk during the summer, with the increased temperatures making it easier for appliances to overheat and catch flames. To protect your premises while going through your daily routine, in particular during heatwaves, consider the following:
1. Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets
This is a good practice for summer fire safety, as well as any other time of the year. The increased temperatures of summer can make it easier for appliances and outlets to overheat, increasing the risk of electrical fires across your home or business.
It is a good practice to avoid overloading any electrical outlets, which you can do through the following:
- Limit Devices: Avoid plugging too many devices into one outlet or using multiple extension cords. Instead, spread out the devices and use separate plugs as much as possible to prevent overheating.
- Check Equipment: Regularly inspect electrical cords for damage and replace them as necessary. Any damage should be repaired or removed as quickly as possible to reduce the risks.
2. Use Appliances Safely
The correct use of appliances and electric devices can go a long way in preventing fires, and summer is the perfect opportunity to check everyone is doing this.
- Appliance Ventilation: Ensure that appliances have proper ventilation to avoid overheating and have space to cool down after use.
- Outdoor Use: When using electrical appliances outdoors, make sure they are designed for external use and are properly grounded. Make sure to use the correct electrical cords for outdoor appliances, keeping them away from other fire sources or water.
3. Air Conditioning and Fans
With the increased temperatures, air conditioning systems and fans are going to be used a lot during the summer. These electrical devices may be powered almost continually during this season and therefore need to be tested to ensure they are safe.
Before using your fans or AC systems, implement the following:
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure air conditioning units are serviced regularly to prevent overworking and overheating.
- Safe Placement: Keep fans away from water sources and ensure they are placed on stable surfaces.
Conclusion
Summer should be a time of joy and relaxation, not worrying about fire hazards. By following these summer fire safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of incidents no matter what you may be doing this season.
From outdoor activities to staying cool indoors, there are ways you can protect your home, loved ones and the surrounding environment by being sensible and implementing summer fire safety practices.
Contact Us Today
If you require fire safety equipment or professional advice, please contact us at Nomico Fire & Security. Our experts are ready to assist you with all your fire safety needs, in summer and beyond.
