Bonfires, which are popular nighttime recreational gatherings geared towards bringing people together with food, fun and fire, can be hazardous when done improperly.
According to several sources, such as SafeBee, an online publication that specializes in safety, there are certain rules that, when followed, can lead to a safer and better bonfire. For instance, the author, David Arv Bragi, states in his article that “the safest fuel is seasoned, untreated and unpainted hardwood without nails.” Wood treated with preservatives can release toxic chemicals into the air when burned, and soft woods tend to produce a lot of dangerous sparks. It is also recommended that trash is not thrown into bonfires, as they can also release toxins into the air.
Location is just as important as fuel when it comes to bonfires. Bragi suggests creating fires as far away as 50 feet from buildings, trees, bushes and other people, but if there are not any open spaces available, check the local codes for the legally required distances in the area and be courteous of the neighbors. It may be necessary to get a permit before building a bonfire on your property. Likewise, make a note of whether or not you have a burn ban in your area; if so, bonfires could potentially create a serious problem.
Numerous other sources besides SafeBee, such as the Beaumont Parenting Program, warn those participating in bonfires against the use of accelerants such as lighter fluid to keep the fires going. Fire extinguishers and buckets of water should also be on standby in case the bonfire gets out of control. The Beaumont Parenting Program also suggests taking the weather into account when planning the bonfire, avoiding windy conditions that may create an uncontrollable fire.
It is especially important to keep safety in mind when children attend bonfires. It is suggested that children do not go within three feet of the bonfire. Keeping children far enough away from the bonfire is important, especially when they’re outside in the dark. The same could be said for pets as well. For those who do choose to take their pets to the bonfires, take extra caution to make sure they don’t get caught in the fire or cause someone else to go into the fire. The author of the article on the Beaumont Parenting Program website even mentioned putting a glow-in-the-dark collar on their dark-colored Labrador retriever so as not to trip on it.
Make sure to wear the proper clothing for a bonfire; that means no flip-flops or bare feet. Non-flammable clothes and close-toed, hard-soled shoes are suggested. The last thing anyone needs are burnt toes.
Finally, when putting out the bonfire after the night of fun, do so properly. Kicking sand or dirt over the fire is not sufficient enough, for a fire can continue to burn after 24 hours. Instead, it is recommended to pour water and rake the coals of the bonfire until it is extinguished before packing up and heading home.
Bonfires can be a fun autumn pastime, and with the proper safety precautions taken into consideration, it can hopefully lead to a good time and keep a trip to the emergency room off the agenda.
– Katherine Carter, Opinions Editor
