Fire Marshal has summer safety tips

Van Wert independent/contributor content

As Ohioans prepare for the start of summer this Memorial Day weekend, State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers is encouraging citizens to take added safety precautions with fireworks, outdoor grills and campfires.

“Summertime should be a time for fun and making happy memories with vacations, reunions and picnics,” said Flowers. “Taking a few simple precautions, knowing fire safety tips and following instructions will help everyone enjoy a safe summer.”

Annually, just under 10,000 Americans are injured by fireworks and almost 5,000 are injured by grill fires, according to the United States Fire Administration. Last year in Ohio, 24 people died in all types of fires reported to the Division of State Fire Marshal by Ohio’s fire departments during June, July and August. Grills accounted for 100 fires and 11 injuries in Ohio last year.

The state fire marshal encourages Ohioans to follow some important safety tips:

Fireworks Safety

• The only types of fireworks that can be legally purchased and discharged in Ohio are trick and novelty devices. These include items that smoke, sparkle, snap and snake.
• Handle and discharge trick and novelty devices only under adult supervision.
• Appoint one adult to be in charge. This person should know the hazards of each type of firework being used.
• Carefully read and follow the label directions on the trick and novelty device packaging.
• Light only one sparkler at a time and hold it away from people’s bodies.
• Sparkler wires, which can burn up to 1,800 degrees, should immediately be placed in a bucket of water to avoid injury as they remain hot for a few minutes after burnout.
• If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for two or three minutes and seek medical attention when necessary.

Campfire Safety

• Build campfires where they will not spread, away from dry grass and leaves and never under overhanging trees.
• 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 done. Stir the fire and douse it again with water.
• Never leave campfires unattended.
• It is important to follow the park’s rules for the use and extinguishing of campfires.

Barbecue/Grill Safety

• Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line.
• 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 spaces – carbon monoxide could be produced.
• Make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop and Roll in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 9-1-1 or a local emergency number if a burn warrants serious medical attention. All burns to the face, hands, feet or groin require medical attention.

During the summer months, fire safety focuses on outside activities such as fireworks and grilling. But while people are already thinking about safety precautions, take the time to test smoke detectors. If batteries have not been changed recently, do it now. Also, dust or vacuum around the detector and replace any units that are 10 years old or older. It is also important to take the time to review a home fire escape plan and make certain every family member has two ways out of the home and knows the outside meeting location.

These measures will help ensure that family and friends stay safe during the summer and all year round.