As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, fire departments and communities prepare for one of the busiest and riskiest seasons of the year. At Metalfab, we are committed to supporting fire service professionals and the public with practical, actionable guidance that helps keep everyone safe during the warmer months.
Spring Cleaning: The First Step In Fire Prevention
Spring cleaning is not just about tidying up; it is a key defence against fire hazards. Encourage residents to remove dry leaves, twigs, needles, and branches from around their properties, as these materials are highly flammable. If there are unhealthy or unstable trees, consult an arborist for safe removal. Fire departments can also support or organize local cleanup events to reduce combustible material throughout the community.
Home Maintenance: Your Line Of Defence
Routine maintenance is essential for fire safety at home. Remind members of your community to install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of their homes, testing them monthly and replacing batteries at least once a year. Fire extinguishers should be present on every floor and checked regularly to ensure they are in good condition.
Electrical safety is equally important. Inspect extension cords for damage or overloading, avoid plugging multiple high-power appliances into the same outlet, and check outdoor electrical units for hazards such as animal nests or faulty wiring. Encourage families to practice their fire escape plans, and ensure all windows open and close properly.
Be Ready For Storms And Power Outages
Summer storms can arrive with little warning. Advise residents to prepare an emergency kit with water, nonperishable food, flashlights, and batteries. Having a plan in place helps families respond quickly if the unexpected happens. Fire departments can also share information on assisting during storms and outages, reassuring the community.
Outdoor Cooking: Enjoy The Season, Stay Safe
Barbecues and outdoor cooking are summer staples, but they require careful attention to safety. Remind residents to position grills away from fences, buildings, deck railings, plants, and trees. Before each use, check propane connections for leaks and clean the grill to prevent grease buildup. Never leave a grill unattended or operate it indoors, as this increases the risk of fire and dangerous gas exposure. Encourage keeping a garden hose or fire extinguisher close in case of flare-ups. Fire departments can demonstrate safe grilling practices at community events and share these tips through department communications.
Celebrate Responsibly: Campfire And Fireworks Safety
Campfires and fireworks are a highlight of summer, but they require responsible handling. Advise your community to build campfires away from tents, trailers, dry grass, and overhanging branches. Never use gasoline to start or maintain a fire, and always fully extinguish campfires with sand and water before leaving. Remind everyone to check local fire restrictions before starting a campfire, as bans may be in effect.
Fireworks should only be handled by responsible adults and set off at a safe distance from people and buildings. As a precaution, always keep water and a bucket close, and never allow children to handle sparklers or fireworks. Departments can provide clear guidelines and collaborate with local authorities to distribute safety materials before holidays and events.
Additional Outdoor Precautions
To further reduce fire risk, advise residents to store firewood at least ten metres from their homes and keep grass trimmed short. If using power equipment, allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before storing. These habits add another layer of protection during fire season.
Fire Safety Is A Shared Responsibility
Fire safety is a community effort. Fire service professionals lead prevention and education, while homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts play a crucial role by staying alert and following safe practices. At Metalfab, we are dedicated to supporting both departments and the public with resources and reliable equipment. Connect with us for more fire safety tips or to learn how our apparatus helps keep communities safe.
