As summer is rapidly approaching, it’s time to break out the barbeque or camping gear and start planning your summer fun! Whether it’s a bonfire on the beach or a cookout with friends, here are some tips to help you prevent painful and serious burn injuries.
Barbeques
If your grill has been sitting all winter, it’s important to give it a quick check to make sure it’s in good shape for the months of grilling ahead of it. Look for broken parts, loose screws, rust, greasy buildup, and other wear and tear that can negatively impact your grill’s performance and safety. Make sure it’s thoroughly cleaned and free of any debris, especially flammable debris. If you have a gas grill, take the time to wipe down your gas lines with soapy water, keeping an eye out for bubbles forming. This can indicate a gas leak. If your gas lines have bubbles forming, it’s time to replace the line. You should also check your fittings and valves for signs of damage before firing up the grill.
Lighting the grill can be an art form, but it’s important to always play it safe. When using charcoal or other solid fuels, you should avoid using too much accelerant or lighter fluid, and always store flammable fuels far from the grill. When lighting gas grills, be sure to light the grill quickly after turning on the gas. If it doesn’t catch at first, turn off the gas and leave the lid open for a few minutes to clear the fumes before trying again.
While grilling, you should take extra precautions to prevent burns. Always wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Keep children out of the immediate area, and refrain from drinking while grilling. Many surfaces of the grill can get hot, so use heat-resistant mitts, pads, or utensils to handle food and dishes around the grill. Always keep a hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher handy when the grill is in use.
Finally, once the cooking is done, let your grill cool off before attempting to clean or dispose of ashes. Always dispose of leftover or burn fuel in an airtight, metal container, and store it far from structures and other flammable materials. This can prevent a fire from starting or spreading if your fuel isn’t completely out.
Campfires
Bonfires are often a quintessential part of summer, from beach bashes to camping at your favorite site. To prevent your adventure from turning tragic, however, you should observe some basic campfire safety. Always build fires in designated fire pits, and never light a fire in an area that’s under a fire advisory. Forest fires can be devastating and you may face criminal charges if your fire starts one. Never light a fire in windy or very dry conditions.
When lighting a fire, begin with a small fire and add wood as needed to grow it larger. If you use a lighter fluid or other accelerants to start your fire, only use a small amount, and remove the container from the immediate area. Don’t add accelerant after the fire has been lit.
Pay attention to sparks and be sure to keep flammable materials, including drying clothing, camp chairs, towels, and tents, away from the fire. Even one spark is enough to cause a fire, so it’s important to watch the wind conditions and put out the fire if the sparks are being carried away. You should also avoid mixing alcohol with campfires, since drinking can impair your judgment, balance, and reflexes.
When you’re done with the fire, bury it under a heavy layer of dirt to smother the ashes and prevent flare-ups. If you choose to use water to put out the fire or let it burn out, you should continue to watch the fire pit until you’re sure it is completely out. Never leave a fire unattended, no matter how low it is.
Lanterns
Propane lanterns are popular for the bright light they offer, though there can be risks. As with any fuel-powered light, there is a risk of fires, gas explosions, and thermal burns from contact with hot surfaces. Always check that the lamp, fuel container, mantles, and glass cover are in good shape before lighting. Once lit, place the lantern on a stable surface where it won’t be knocked over. Always completely extinguish lights and allow them to cool before storing. If you’re looking to avoid the risks completely, many modern LED lanterns are available, and can provide bright, long-lasting light at the push of a button.
Fireworks
When the Fourth of July rolls around, many of us love to celebrate with fireworks. Before you do, though, check your areas local laws on fireworks, and follow them. If you’re allowed to light fireworks, you should still do so safely. Never, ever point fireworks at others or put your body in the way while lighting them. Always set off fireworks in a clear area, away from any buildings, trees, or other flammable materials. Keep water or a fire extinguisher on hand. Little ones often love fireworks, but it’s important to keep them clear of the display. Never allow a child to light or handle fireworks, and always keep a close eye on them while others are setting them off. Finally, always store fireworks safely. This means keep them away from heat sources and other flammable materials. Dispose of the remains in heat safe, airtight containers, or submerge them in water.
Prevent summer festivities from turning tragic by observing proper safety rules. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to claim compensation. Our Anchorage personal injury attorneys are ready to help you through the personal injury claim process. We’ll be with you every step of the way. Discuss your case today by scheduling a free consultation with The Law Offices of David Henderson.
Contact our firm by calling (888) 295-6566.