Seasonal Fire Safety Tips

Focus on Residential Fire Safety:
Summer Grilling, Fire Pits, and Fireworks

Every summer residents look forward to backyard parties, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to outdoor cooking and recreational fires. Thousands of Americans are injured each year by gas or charcoal grill fires. 

Summertime should be a time of fun and making happy memories. Knowing a few fire safety tips and following safety instructions will help everyone have a safe summer.

backyard fire pit

Safety Tips for Grilling

  • Charcoal burners and other open flame cookers are not allowed on multifamily dwelling balconies. Review Lafayette's Fire Grill policy.
  • Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces such as tents, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.
  • Position the grill well away (at least 10 feet) from siding, deck railing, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Keep children and pets from the grill area: declare a three-foot "safe zone" around the grill.
  • If you own a propane grill, check the cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will reveal escaping propane quickly by releasing bubbles.
  • Purchase the proper starter fluid and store it out of reach of children and away from heat sources.
  • Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited, and never use any flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to get the fire going.
  • If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
  • Never store propane cylinders in buildings or garages. If you store a gas grill inside during the winter, disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside.

Fire Pits

In recent years, there has been a new concern for the Fire Service - fire pits. Fire pits are known to be a great source of warmth and ambiance. But, with the popularity of fire pits increasing, fire safety has become even more important. 

There are many things you should consider while setting up and using a fire pit:

  • Portable outdoor fireplaces shall not be operated within 25 feet of a structure or combustible material.
  • Keep away from flammable material and fluids such as gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, and charcoal lighter fluid or vehicles while in use.
  • Do not use flammable fluids such as gasoline, alcohol, diesel fuel, kerosene, and charcoal lighter fluid to light or relight fires.
  • Exercise the same precautions you would with an open fire.
  • Do not allow children to use the fire pit. Keep children and pets away.
  • Do not wear flammable or loose-fitting clothing such as nylon.
  • Do not burn trash, leaves, paper, cardboard, or plywood.
  • Avoid using softwood such as pine or cedar that likely pop and throw sparks. Use of seasoned hardwood is suggested.
  • Before starting the fire, make sure that the lid will still close to extinguish the fire in case of emergency. Do not overload.
  • Before you light the fire, check the wind direction.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby.

Learn more about the Lafayette Fire Department's open burn policy.

Fireworks

The use of all fireworks, including items such as sparklers, snakes, and smoke bombs, is prohibited within Lafayette city limits. Those in possession or caught using them will be ticketed.

We encourage the community to safely enjoy the Independence Day Fun and Fireworks event at Waneka Lake on July 2, 2022. Find more information on the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce website.