What’s on your “Summer Bucket List” this year? Barbecues and bonfires? Fireworks and fireflies? Okay, so the fireflies don’t really pose a hazard, but you get the picture. Unless going to the ER is on your list, the staff of D’Amico Electric Inc. recommend these fire safety tips to make sure today’s summer fun turns into tomorrow’s happy memories.
Mix Wet & Wild
If you’re building a camp fire or planning to shoot off fireworks, be sure to have plenty of water close at hand. By being prepared, you can keep a few sparks from igniting into a big-time blaze. If you’re close enough to the house to access your hose, make sure it’s connected and ready-to-use.
When you’re away from home, make sure to familiarize yourself with nearby water sources, and bring a bucket along to fill with water and keep close to your grill or fire pit. If you give your kids sparklers to wave around, you’ll want a small can of water on hand where they can dispose of the red-hot wires when they’re done — or sooth singed fingers, in a pinch.
Grill Your Kids
No, we don’t mean literally, of course! But do your kids know what to do in case of a fire? Make sure they know where the water sources are and that if something does go wrong, they need to stop, drop, and roll.
Especially if your kids are young, take extra precautions near grills, fires, or fireworks. Even tiny smoke bombs can cause damage if they’re in small hands. Make sure adults light the fires and are always nearby when a fire is going.
Check the Weather
After a snowy winter and wet spring, you’re probably more than ready for warm and dry summer days. But remember that when it’s dry or windy, forest fires can take off easily, so take extra precautions if you start a fire or set off fireworks.
Be extra vigilant about keeping water nearby and check with your local DNR for any restrictions on fires.
Dress for Safety
You’re probably dressing more for comfort and Instagram-worthy photo shoots than anything, but keep fire safety in mind, too. Loose clothing can easily catch on the corners of a grill or firewood or catch floating ashes. To lessen your risk, make sure your clothing is fitted and accessories are minimal.
Clean Up Your Mess
Before you call it a night, be sure to bury coals properly, dowse campfires in water, and properly dispose of any used fireworks. Scour the grill to remove any excess grease, too. Especially if you’re celebrating away from home, properly cleaning up after a fire will require planning ahead by bringing a shovel, scouring tool, or bucket along.
Like all fun, outdoor fires come with responsibilities. Be sure to exercise caution and take the 5 steps above, and you’ll be able to take the heat this summer — without being burned!
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D’Amico Electric Company
Since 1994, the D’Amico Electric Company has been offering electrical contracting services for industrial, commercial and residential buildings. From backup generator installation & ongoing maintenance to landscape/accent wiring and home theater systems, our experienced technicians are here to serve you. With our fleet of 10 trucks, we provide emergency electrical services 24 hours a day. Visit our website at damicoelectriccompany.com.
D’Amico Electric is licensed in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties, New York and all of Connecticut. Our founder is Anthony D’Amico, a licensed electrician since 1992, who is a member of the Westchester Licensed Electrical Contractors Association.
When you need electrical help, choose D’Amico. We bring safe & innovative electrical solutions to homes & businesses. For more information on how we can serve you, call D’Amico Electric today at (914) 241-6909.
Photo credits: Top © Tolstnev/Fotolia; 2nd © Sean Locke Photography/Fotolia; 3rd © Dmytro Gilitukha/Fotolia; 4th © WavebreakmediaMicro/Fotolia; 5th © JMP Photography LLC/Fotolia; 6th © D’Amico Electric Inc .
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