Fall Fire Dangers | SERVPRO® of Clatsop, Columbia Counties

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Clatsop, Columbia Counties is a trusted leader in the restoration industry.

Do you feel that? It’s Autumn in Oregon again, and that means temperatures are peaking in the 60s and you’re probably breaking out your favorite seasonal hoodie. It’s a favorite season for campers, nature lovers of all kinds and of course trick-or-treaters.

As always, however, each season brings about its own potential for fire hazards of which we need to be mindful. So grab your favorite warm beverage and let’s check out a few ways to stay safe this fall.

Campfire Safety

It’s important to know both how and where to build a campfire, as well as how to put it out. Build away from any flammable structures, and don’t set a fire under low-hanging branches.

Use only a match or lighter to start a fire from tinder and small sticks, adding larger pieces of wood as the fire grows. Never use accelerants like kerosene or lighter fluid.

It’s not safe to leave your camp until the fire is completely extinguished, as anything left behind (especially larger pieces of wood) can reignite with enough oxygen. Douse your fire slowly with a bucket of water and continue to soak it until no embers remain.

Leaf Burning

Many homeowners choose to burn leaves as a natural, simple solution, but always keep safety at the forefront.

Provided it’s legal in your part of the county, burn your leaves in a barrel or pile, safely away from structures or other piles. Never burn anything inorganic, as it can release fumes or introduce harmful chemicals into the soil.

Space Heaters

Portable space heaters are a top cause of household fires in colder months. Don’t put your heater near anything flammable.

Keep heaters away from kids or play areas, making sure they’re on level ground and that they’ll automatically shut off if they get tipped over. Don’t use them with extension cords as they can cause short circuits, and always turn them off when you leave or go to sleep.

Halloween

We’ll get to this in more detail later, but Halloween and fall decor can be flammable, as can costumes. Get your house ready for spooky season but do it with safety in mind.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember a nationally trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.