Nothing puts a damper on your favorite summer activities then loosing all the precious things you cherish to a preventable fire. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Fire and Emergency Service urges you to follow these simple safety tips:
Gas-operated grills are quick and convenient but here are some things to keep you and your property safe. Gas cylinders should always be stored outside, and always turn the valve off between use.
Check for leaks monthly with a dish detergent and water solution. Spray the solution on connection points and fittings; leaking gas will cause soap bubbles to form.
When lighting your grill, always leave the lid up. If it doesn’t light in 20 seconds, wait a minute to let the unburned gas dissipate to prevent an explosion.
Charcoal grills should never be started with anything other than approved lighter fluid. To prevent a flash fire, never apply lighter fluid once briquettes have been lit. Always ensure your coals are cold to the touch and stir them with water before you dispose of them.
All grills must be at least 10 feet away from any structure. Additionally, never cook in an enclosed space like a garage; charcoal produces large quantities of carbon monoxide. Always grill outside, and grills or outdoor fireplaces must not be used or placed on wood decks.
When maintaining your yard, never fuel a running engine. Shut it off and allow it least 10 minutes to cool before filling the gas tank.
Never have a source of ignition such as cigarettes close to your fueling location. Gasoline must be stored in UL-approved containers.
Provide a 35-foot defensible space between your home and nearby trees and shrubs. If your home is built in a wooded area, cut back all overhanging tree limbs in close proximity to the roof and remove or reduce vegetation that may become a potential fuel source.
Camping requires unique safety precautions. Unattended camp fires have burned millions of acres of forest; extinguish them before you go to sleep.
Camp fires should be kept small with no overhanging tree limbs or light grasses within five feet. There is no burning allowed in a high or extreme fire index rating. Check with local authorities before you make any camp fire in state and federal parks.
Flame retardant tents and sleeping bags should always be used; never have open flame lighting or other equipment in your tent. Use only battery operated lighting and equipment within your tent.
The warm weather will not last very long, so take advantage of what Alaska has to offer. Enjoy barbequing year round but keep grills 10 feet from all structures. Fires occur very fast and with little warning, so be aware of how equipment is fueled.
Camping is a great activity to bring the family together, but proper gear and common sense can keep your loved ones safe.
If you have any question on these or any other fire prevention matters, call 552-2620.