Whether you’re at a cozy cottage, enjoying a recreational vehicle (RV) or camping in a tent under the stars, being mindful of fire hazards and exercising good fire safety practices can protect nature and keep everyone safe.
Fires can spread quickly, especially in dry conditions. Here are some key fire safety tips:
Campfires:
- Keep a shovel and sand or dirt, or a water supply nearby.
- Avoid burning on windy days.
- Keep fires small and controlled,
- Refrain from using accelerants like lighter fluid or gasoline
- Never leave a fire unattended,
- Fully extinguish the fire before going to bed or leaving. Douse with water, stir the contents then douse with water again.
- If your clothes catch fire, STOP, DROP to the ground, cover your face with your hands and ROLL back and forth.
RV’s
- Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working, replacing the batteries or units as necessary.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
- Check all propane connections regularly for damage or leaks.
- Know two ways out of the RV. Make sure windows open easily.
Cottages
- Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working, replacing the batteries or units as necessary.
- Clean chimneys or woodstove flues.
- Know two ways out.
- Plan and practice a home escape plan with your family.
Safety first! Enjoy the great outdoors responsibly and have a FUNtastic summer!
Courtesy of the Hamilton Fire Department.