Bonfire Safety Tips
Staci ParksAs the nights get longer, bonfires are a fun, cozy way to enjoy the crisp chill throughout Texas’ much-anticipated cooler months. A bonfire is the perfect setting to tell a few Texas-centric creepy tales, make s’mores, and enjoy the company of people you love the most.
But before you light that fire, take a few extra steps to make sure your bonfire gathering is as safe as it is fun. Here are some bonfire tips that prioritize safety and prevent accidents and wildfires.
Check the Weather
Of course, you’ll want to avoid a rainy, stormy evening if you’re planning a bonfire. But watch for high winds, low humidity, and any other weather event (such as a lighting storm) that could trigger an unruly fire. If the weather won’t cooperate, consider postponing or rescheduling your evening to keep everyone safe.
Location, Location, Location
First thing’s first: Check with your local municipality for existing rules or regulations regarding bonfires, and make sure there are no burn bans in place.
Whether building a fire pit or bonfire, scouting the ideal spot is one of the most important things you can do. Steer clear of dry vegetation like dry grass, leaves, and branches. Make sure you’re more than 25 feet away from structures, power lines, tree branches, and combustible materials — anything that could easily catch fire.
Prep the Area
Once you’ve chosen the perfect spot, clear any debris around the area. Picking up sticks, leaves, and trash can prevent embers from unintentionally spreading the fire. You’ll also want to remove ash from previous fires.
Dig a shallow pit toward the center. This will help control the fire, as the wood will fall in on itself instead of outward. Surround the area with bricks and/or stones. Always keep water and sand handy to quickly extinguish the fire if needed.
Use the Proper Materials
What you use to start a fire matters. Avoid using lighter fluid; opt for newspaper or fire starters you can buy in a hardware store. You’ll want to find wood that burns cleanly, so avoid pressure-treated wood that contains preservative chemicals, as it can release toxic fumes into the air. Start small and build up the fire, gradually adding more wood as needed.
Stay Alert
It might sound basic, but it bears repeating: Never leave the fire unattended! Be mindful of flames that might be growing too fast or too quick. Enlist a friend or two to help you monitor the fire as the evening progresses.
Crowd Control
The flicker and crackle of a raging fire is alluring and hypnotizing, so keep a barrier between the bonfire and your guests. Use rocks or bricks to mark off the area. Make sure all energetic, curious pets and kids are at least 10 feet away from the fire to prevent injuries. Also, in this instance, it’s OK to play fashion police, as loose-fitting clothing can easily catch fire. If your guests are enjoying a few adult beverages, make sure they’re staying clear of the fire.
End the Night Responsibly
When the night has come to an end, follow this bonfire ritual:
- Douse the area with water. Make sure the embers are completely saturated. There should be no hissing sounds.
- Check for any lingering heat by hovering your hands above the area.
- Shovel the ashes into a metal container with a lid and store it in a safe area away from flammable materials. Wait up to a week before disposing of the ashes to ensure they cool.
Learn how to keep flames at bay inside, too, with this complete home fire safety guide.
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