It’s the Fall season, and that means festive fun, cooler weather, and vibrant colors. Even though there is so much to look forward to in this season, we can’t afford to overlook certain fire hazards that pose a threat to one’s safety. Here are the top fire hazards to avoid this Fall.
Burning Leaves
When you think of Fall, one of the images that might come to mind is a huge pile of multicolored leaves. From watching them fall, to raking them up, to maybe even jumping in them, leaves are a staple of the season, but did you know burning them can cause some serious harm? Some local ordinances in Illinois ban the burning of leaves and other landscape waste. Burning leaves releases toxins into the air, which can be harmful to breathe in. Burning leaves can also expose you to carbon monoxide emissions. If not properly contained, the burning leaves can also lead to a wildfire and cause serious damage. It is best to contact your local municipality to learn more about their open burn regulations and find out how to properly dispose of your landscape waste.
Decorations
Decorating for Halloween or the harvest season is fun and festive, but did you know it can be a fire hazard? Decorations like corn husks, dried flowers or leaves, and crepe paper are extremely flammable and can ignite if they are too close to a flame or heat source. Decorations like jack-o-lanterns, which often use candles to light up the design, can also cause fires if left unattended. Try to opt for battery-powered candles instead, to lower the risk of a fire hazard.
Bonfires
A classic Fall activity is huddling up around a bonfire with friends and family, but even bonfires can pose a safety threat. Keep your bonfire away from vegetation, structures, and power lines. It is recommended to leave at least 10 feet of space around your bonfire. Never use an accelerant like lighter fluid to ensure your flames don’t grow out of control. Keep a large bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergency. Avoid building your fire on windy or dry days and never leave your bonfire unattended.
We want you to have a fun and safe Fall season, so always be sure to use caution with these activities to ensure you are not put in harm’s way.
