Summer Fire Safety

Enjoy the outdoors safely

Summer Fire Facts

  • • July is the peak month for grill fires.
  • • Nearly half of injuries from grill fires are thermal burns.
  • • Fireworks cause an average of 19,500 fires per year.
  • • Dry conditions increase wildfire risk significantly.

Grilling Safety

  • Grill outdoors only—never in a garage, on a porch, or near anything that can catch fire.
  • Keep 10 feet away from your house, deck railings, and any overhangs.
  • Clean your grill regularly—grease buildup is a leading cause of grill fires.
  • Check gas grills for leaks before the first use of the season.
  • Never leave the grill unattended when in use.
  • Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill.

Campfire Safety

Building a Safe Fire

  • • Use designated fire rings or pits when available.
  • • Clear a 10-foot area around the fire of leaves and debris.
  • • Keep fires small and manageable.
  • • Never use gasoline or other accelerants.

Extinguishing the Fire

  • • Drown the fire with water.
  • • Stir the ashes and drown again.
  • • Feel for heat with the back of your hand.
  • • If it's too hot to touch, it's too hot to leave.

Fireworks Safety

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by professionals.

If consumer fireworks are legal in your area and you choose to use them:

  • Never give fireworks to young children.
  • Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
  • Light fireworks one at a time and move away quickly.
  • Never try to relight a "dud"—wait 20 minutes and soak it in water.
  • Soak spent fireworks in water before discarding.

Wildfire Prevention

  • Check fire danger levels before burning—visit our Fire Danger page.
  • Never burn on dry, windy days.
  • Keep your lawn mowed and clear brush from around your home.
  • Dispose of cigarettes properly—never toss them from vehicles.
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Content source: National Fire Protection Association