Summer is the perfect time for outdoor grills, fireworks, and bonfires. Whether you are out enjoying the warmer weather on the beach, up in the mountains, or in your own backyard, safety should always be a top priority. It is easier to prevent a fire than it is to invest in fire and water restoration afterward. Here are a few safety tips to follow to make this summer season safe and memorable!

1. Always keep water handy. Keeping a bucket of water or a garden hose close to the fire will help you to quickly douse any flammable material that falls out of your fire pit. Having water close by means that you’ll be able to quickly respond and keep a fire under control.
2. Supervise all fireworks. While sparklers and pinwheels may seem harmless, the reality is that children should be supervised by an adult at all times when using them. It is also important to remember that you should never try to re-light fireworks that did not light or go off properly the first time. When this happens, dump the firework into a bucket of water and move on to others.
3. Clean up grease build up. When you use a grill, either charcoal or gas, grease and other gunk can build up over time. To prevent a grease fire, be sure to clean your grill before you use it.
4. Always check your surroundings before you start a fire or a grill. When you are getting ready to start either, it is important to check your surroundings to ensure there are no other flammable materials nearby. This can include deck railings, overhanging branches, dry grass, or dry wood. If you are out camping, be sure to clear an area around your fire pit or grill to be sure there are no dry materials that could catch fire from a spark.
5. Always completely put out a fire. When you are finished with your fire, be sure to always put out the fire completely. The same applies for grills—be sure to close the propane valve, shut the lid, along with vents on a charcoal grill. Fires and grills that are left unsupervised can quickly become an unfortunate disaster.

While fires, grills, and fireworks are fun and an essential part of summer, just remember to be smart and safe so that everyone has an enjoyable experience. A fire and water restoration company can help in the event the unfortunate does occur.