Mariposa County Fire Department Help Us Help You: Barbecue, Campfire and Fireworks Safety Tip

Last Updated on Friday, 15 June 2012 16:50

Help Us Help You: Barbecue, Campfire and Fireworks Safety Tips By Debbie Cook, PIO
June 15, 2012 - The July 4^th holiday is just around the corner and with it fires and injuries caused by fireworks and outdoor grills. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reports that fireworks injure approximately 8,600 people and almost 5,000 are injured by charcoal/wood-burning and propane grill fires annually. Mariposa County Fire shares the following information taken from usfa.fema.gov. Be safe!

Barbecue Safety –

Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the venturi tubes - where the air and gas mix - are not blocked.
Do not overfill the propane tank.
Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.
Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately. Supervise children around outdoor grills.
Dispose of hot coals properly - douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.
Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas - carbon monoxide could be produced.
Make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop and Roll in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 911 or your local emergency number if a burn warrants serious medical attention.

Campfire Safety –

Build campfires where they will not spread, away from dry grass and leaves.
Keep campfires small, and don't let them get out of hand.
Keep plenty of water and a shovel around to douse the fire when you're done. Stir it and douse it again with water.
Never leave campfires unattended.

Fireworks Safety – Fireworks are illegal in Mariposa County.

The safest and best way to enjoy fireworks is to attend public displays and leave it to the professionals. However, if you are in an area that allows fireworks follow these safety tips:
Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a device is not marked with the contents, direction and a warning label, do not light it.
Supervise children around fireworks at all times.