Fall is a beautiful time of year, prompting friends and family to venture outside to enjoy time gathered around a fire, roasting marshmallows and telling stories. Whether your choice is a grill, smoker, bonfire or burn barrel, the primal pull of fire helps people bond as the summer heat begins to wane. Here a few tips to help you safely enjoy your fall.

Grills and Barbecues:

• Ensure your grill is set away from your home, garage, eaves and overhanging branches.

• Check grill gas tank hose for leaks before using.

• Avoid moving a hot grill.

• Never leave your grill unattended.

• Keep children and pets safely away from the grill area.

Bonfires and burn barrels:

• Review local ordinances; verify burn permit requirements.

• Have fire extinguishing equipment available garden hoses, fire extinguishers, rakes, shovels. (Flashlights, cell phones and first aid kits are handy.

• Keep children and pets at a safe distance.

• Make sure your outdoor gear (furniture, tools, mowers, etc.) is located at a sufficient distance from the fire.

• Do not use accelerants to start a fire.

• Avoid wearing flip-flops/walking barefoot near the fire.

• Never leave the fire unattended.

Properly extinguish the fire. In the wise words of Smokey Bear, “if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave”

If a fire accidentally damages your property or a neighbor’s, contact our office regarding coverage for damage under your homeowners insurance.