June Fire Safety Message: Get Ready for a Fire Safe Summer

As temperatures rise and people spend more time outdoors, fire prevention becomes especially important. Summer brings an increase in activities such as backyard barbecues, camping, and holiday celebrations, all of which come with added fire risks. Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the chance of accidental fires and help keep families, homes, and communities safe.

Outdoor Grilling Safety

• Keep it clean: Regularly clean barbeques to remove grease and fat buildup, which can cause flare-ups.
  
  
• Location matters: Never use a barbeque indoors, in a garage, or under overhanging branches; always use it in a well-ventilated, open area.
  
  
• Proximity Alert: Keep children and pets at least 3 feet (1 meter) away from the grilling area.
  
  
• Propane Check: Check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line for leaks before the first use.

Fireworks and Summer Celebration Safety

• Leave it to the experts: The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend public, professional displays.
  
  
• Sparkler safety: Sparklers burn at 2,000°F (1093°C)—hot enough to melt some metals—and should not be used by young children.
  
  
• Immediate disposal: Douse used fireworks with plenty of water before discarding to prevent trash fires.

Outdoor Burning and Wildfire Prevention

• Permits: Attain a permit for any outdoor fires, larger then 2’x2’ by creating an account at https://townofessex.burnpermits.com/login.
  
  
• Outdoor Fires: Do not burn during dry spells. 
  
  
• Campfires: A campfire contained in a 2’x2’ fire pit does not need a permit.
  
  
• Dry conditions: Ensure all campfires are completely cold to the touch before leaving them or going to sleep.
  
  
• Equipment hazards: Keep lawn mowers and other equipment in good repair to avoid sparks in dry grass.

Home and General Safety 

• Test Alarms: Since June is a popular time for home maintenance, test all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and ensure they are on every level of the home, and outside bedrooms.
  
  
• Check Extinguishers: Ensure fire extinguishers are accessible, fully charged, and that household members know how to use them.
  
  
• Escape Plans: Re-evaluate or create a home fire escape plan that includes two ways out of every room.

Child Safety

• Matches and lighters: Store all matches and lighters out of children's sight and reach.
  
  
• Education: Teach children that fire is a tool, not a toy