The fire and water damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Carrollton are reminding the local community about seasonal fire hazards that homeowners need to be aware of this fall. The transition from the scorching heat of summer to the brisk chill of winter is marked by a period of pleasant, moderate weather that invites people out of their homes for outdoor recreation and to appreciate the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. When engaging in autumn activities, especially those that involve the use of fire, Dallas, TX, property owners should practice fire safety to enjoy the fall months to the fullest.
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Falling leaves and proper leaf disposal
The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn leaves are one of the most memorable visuals of the season. However, once the leaves have all fallen, the homeowner is left with piles of unsightly debris covering the yard. When it comes to leaf disposal, the first idea that may come to mind may be to burn the leaves, along with any lawn and shrub clippings lying around the yard.
If the local ordinances allow it, the homeowner can safely and legally deal with leaf piles through a controlled, carefully observed fire. What is not safe is adding trash to the fire. According to Scott Hultman, M.D., M.B.A., director of the Johns Hopkins Burn Center, “While leaves and grass clippings can be disposed of through burning, we caution against burning trash, which can result in unpredictable explosions and emit toxic fumes.”
When burning a pile of leaves, never use a flammable liquid or substance, such as gasoline or kerosene, to start the fire. Watch the burn at all times to ensure that it does not grow too large, and pay attention to the wind, which can quickly cause the fire to spiral out of control. Be prepared to put out the fire at a moment’s notice, and keep a water hose close by. Buckets of sand or a fire extinguisher can also help to smother the blaze.
If municipal regulations do not permit the burning of leaves or if homeowners are unsure of their ability to burn safely on their property, other leaf disposal options are available. Leaves and other organic yard debris can be recycled into a variety of beneficial materials, including compost and mulch. Also, some areas offer curbside pickup of bagged leaves and clippings, or in locations where leaf collection is not available, the homeowner can hire a yard waste removal service.
Staying safe around the campfire or firepit
Once the temperatures start to cool down, families are eager to get outside, light the campfire, and roast hot dogs or marshmallows. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns, “Campfire accidents send thousands of people to emergency rooms with burn injuries every year.” As long as fire safety is a priority, the warm glow of the flames can be enjoyed without incident or injury. Below are several tips to follow when gathering with family or friends around the campfire or firepit.
- Build the firepit at a distance of 25 feet or more away from any structures. The site should be in an open area that is level and free from overhanging branches and greenery, as well as dry material like leaves, grass clippings, sticks, and brushes.
- As mentioned above, do not use flammable substances to ignite a fire.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Keep a water hose, sand, or a fire extinguisher on hand to quickly douse the fire.
- Stay at a safe distance from the flames, and do not allow children to get too close to the fire, play around the fire, or jump over the fire.
- Once activities around the campfire or firepit have ended, make certain that the fire has been completely extinguished before leaving the area. Put out all embers.
Who to call in the event of fire damage
The team of restoration and cleaning specialists at SERVPRO® of Carrollton can provide a rapid, full-service response to fire damage in Dallas, TX, and surrounding areas. Using industry-leading equipment and cleaning products, technicians remediate fire damage and remove smoke odors from the home. They are also skilled in a variety of contents cleaning methods, including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, spray and wipe, foam cleaning, abrasive cleaning, and immersion cleaning.
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To learn more about SERVPRO of Carrollton’s fire and water damage restoration services, call the office at (972) 446-0383 or email office@servpro10952.com.
