Summer is a time for outdoor activities and enjoying the warm weather, but it’s also when we must be extra cautious about fire safety. Your South Jordan City Fire Department wants to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe while having fun this summer.
It is important to remember that fireworks are restricted in many high-fire-risk areas in South Jordan and can be incredibly dangerous if not handled properly. If you choose to use fireworks, make sure they are purchased locally and are legal to discharge in your area. Be sure to keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby, never light them near dry grass, trees, bushes, or other flammable materials, and ensure aerial fireworks are secure from tipping over by using heavy objects like cinderblocks placed on each side of the aerial cake. Children under the age of 16 may not handle or operate aerial fireworks. Remember all children should be closely supervised when in an area where fireworks are being used, as even sparklers operate at more than 1000 degrees, which can cause serious burn injuries or light clothes on fire.
Another potential fire hazard during the summer months is smoking outdoors. Cigarettes should always be disposed of properly in an ashtray or other fire-safe container. Never toss a cigarette butt on the ground, around decks, close to your home, or out your car’s window where it can ignite dry grass or leaves. Improperly disposed of smoking materials result in significant property losses, injuries, and deaths from fires every year.
If you’re planning on spending time camping or hiking this summer, it’s important to remember that campfires can quickly get out of control if not managed carefully. Make sure campfires are allowed in your area before starting one, keep them small, and never leave them unattended. When you finish your campfire, extinguish it completely by pouring water over the embers until they are cool to the touch. Be sure to use plenty of water and stir up the ash and embers to ensure the fire is fully out. Even a modest breeze can reignite hot embers and carry them away from a fire pit.
Finally, having a plan in an emergency is always a good idea. Make sure everyone knows what to do if there is a fire, and practice your escape plan regularly. Remember to call 911 immediately if you see smoke or flames, and remember to test and replace batteries in your smoke detectors each year. Also keep an operating carbon monoxide (CO) detector on every floor of your home. Both smoke detectors and CO detectors should be replaced every ten years.
By following these simple tips and being mindful of fire safety during the summer months, you can help ensure that everyone has a safe and happy summer season!
Learn more and view the fire restriction map.