By: Leslie Harkavy, Esquire

July 19, 2024

With the summer comes an increase in outdoor activities including bonfires throughout the United States. Roasting marshmallows to make s’mores with family and talking with friends around a fire are summer staples for many people in New England. Although bonfires can be a fun way to get together with friends and enjoy the beautiful summer nights, it is important to recognize the dangers they can pose. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commissions, there were 5,300 injuries caused by fire pits and bonfires that required emergency room visits. Many of these injuries are preventable. Here is a list of some safety tips to help you stay safe around bonfires this summer.

1. Check your town’s laws about open fires before hosting a bonfire

Massachusetts fire pits are subject to the open burning regulations of the Mass Department on Environmental Protection. This includes only starting a fire that is at least 75 feet away from any structures or buildings. However, each individual town has their own safety guidelines and regulations surrounding open fires. In fact, twenty-two high-density towns have bans on open fires. Therefore, it is important to check your town’s regulations before starting a fire.

2. Check the weather

Be sure to only start a bonfire during clear conditions. High winds can cause the fire to spread too quickly, increasing the chance of personal injury and damage to buildings or other structures. Check with your local weather stations for high winds or other severe weather to stay safe.

3. Pay close attention to children and pets around bonfires

Never leave a child unattended when a bonfire is lit. Children can be curious and want to get close to a fire, but over 1300 children under the age of 5 were burned by a firepit in 2017, according to the Consumer Product’s Safety Commission. If pets are left unattended, they may get too close to a fire, leading to burns and other injuries. Make sure that an adult is always present around a fire, especially when a child or pet is there.

4. Only burn safe materials

Never burn trash, painted wood, or anything with chemicals. As they burn, toxins can be released into the air, which are dangerous to breathe in. Even certain wood such as twigs or branches found outside can contain too much water, creating high levels of smoke. Be sure to only burn dry firewood that is appropriate for your fire pit.

5. Always keep fire extinguishing materials nearby

In case of a fire emergency, it is always necessary to be prepared to extinguish the fire to ensure the safety of everyone. Always keep a fire extinguisher and a source of water nearby in case the flames get too big, or something catches on fire. In these situations, there is no time to waste. Even a few seconds taken to get water or a fire extinguisher inside can be too long. Therefore, always designate someone to keep a close eye on the fire and be prepared in case an emergency ensues.

6. Never leave a fire unattended

The safety of a bonfire can quickly change. If it starts to suddenly get windy outside, it can cause the flames to grow and spread beyond the confines of the fire pit, causing injury. Be sure there is always someone watching the fire pit to make sure the fire is contained, and everyone is safe. If people are consuming alcohol around a bonfire, make sure there is always someone sober present. Alcohol decreases reaction time, and that time can make a difference when a fire is spreading. Always have someone who is alert and prepared to act in case of an emergency.

7. Extinguish fires completely before a fire is left unattended

Even after putting a fire out, the flames can still be active for hours afterwards. If something blows into the firepit, this can cause the fire to reignite, and if left unattended can cause injury or threaten the safety of surrounding structures and buildings. Make sure to wait until the fire is completely extinguished before going in for the night so that you can be sure you are safe.

Bonfires are a fun way to get together throughout the summer, whether it be in your backyard or on the beach. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a bonfire safely and prevent personal injuries. Happy Summer!

The lawyers at Nadeau Harkavy LLC help victims and their families recover compensation for their losses in serious injury and wrongful death cases arising from motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, or through any other accident. Make sure everything is done to protect your interests. If you have any questions about your legal rights relating to a car accident, wrongful death, or other accident, feel free to contact us for a free consult today at 617-674-7640.