Fall is officially here, and with the debut of sweaters, colorful leaves and chilly temperatures comes an increase in fires–campfires.
The season’s cooler weather sparks many families to light-up and gather around open flames. Whether you are hosting a marshmallow roast in your backyard fire pit or attending a fall fling at a beach bonfire, there are certain precautions you should take, especially if young children are part of the festivities.
For starters, be aware that kids are attracted to flames. The bright dancing lights are hard to resist, especially for youngsters who don’t comprehend the injuries they can sustain if they reach out and touch the glow. Consequently, it’s up to parents and other responsible adults to be present and attentive while a campfire is burning. Kids should be told to remain seated several feet away from flames. In addition, extinguished bonfires should still be monitored after the flames have died to ensure the fire does not reignite. Also, never leave children alone near a freshly extinguished blaze. Curious kids can be burned by embers, which still retain heat even after the fire is out.
Don’t be complacent regarding the area in which you decide to build a campfire either. Avoid starting the fire near low hanging branches, tree roots, structures, and other flammable items. Rather, choose a location where your fire cannot burn things it shouldn’t. In addition, keep the flames sheltered from the wind and use campfire rings or other designated campfire accessories whenever possible.
Finally, just because you came up with the brilliant idea to let your kids make smores in the backyard, doesn’t mean you should take shortcuts that will compromise their safety. Using appropriate campfire fuel will help keep you and your family safe. Keep in mind that some liquid fire starters contain harmful chemicals that can cause serious skin burns. Likewise, using random items to fuel a fire can also be an accident waiting to happen. Don’t burn items that may explode or give off toxic fumes, such as batteries, plastic bags, glass, and aluminum cans.
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