Your Fire Safety Checklist for Warmer Weather | SERVPRO® of Allen

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Allen to learn more.

As popular as New Year’s Day is, many people look forward to spring as the start of something truly new.

The weather feels nice again, the outdoors seems more inviting and new life is springing up everywhere. Something about it just feels right, doesn’t it?

Spring also beckons us to barbecue. We’ll use any old reason to break out the smoker or grill—graduation parties, family cookouts or high school reunions. But this also leads to an increase in accidental fires.

In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year. But don’t worry; we’ve got the safety tips that will keep you on the path to a safe, enjoyable season around the house.

The grill. Grills are a common culprit for springtime fires, which is why they are often the first thing we think about for fire safety. The basics of safety: Make sure your grill is stable and in good working order, keep it cleaned between uses (almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning), use only recommended accelerants and fuels, and keep it at least three feet from the house (and 10 from any brush or leaves).

The fire pit. Picture yourself hanging out with good friends, and you may also envision a fire pit. Fire pits add a cozy glow to a cooling spring or summer night, but it’s important to operate them safely. Keep a bucket of water nearby—use it to slowly cool the fire to cold embers once the night is through, or as an emergency snuffer. Keep kids away from any fires unattended. And don’t use leaves or pine needles to stoke the fire, as they may create runaway embers.

Chimneys and dryer vents. Your chimney can get a backup or buildup of ash, and spring is at least a pleasant time to do the unpleasant job of cleaning it out so that next fall you’re not lighting fires in a clogged chimney. As for the dryer, use this season change to check all its connections, hoses and vent pipes for built-up lint.

Your local SERVPRO technicians are on hand ²⁴⁄₇ for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO difference.