5 Huge Mistakes to Avoid For Bonfire Brilliance This Summer

It’s no secret that bonfires have become a cherished tradition, uniting people for celebrations and more. However, it's crucial to be mindful of fire safety, as the National Fire Protection Association estimates that a fire department responds to a fire every 23 seconds in the U.S., with a home fire-related injury occurring every 47 minutes.

According to Pete Duncanson — who is Sr. Director of Training & Development at ServiceMaster Restore — countless hosts and homeowners make the following five bonfire blunders:

>> MISTAKE #1: CHOOSING AREAS NEAR TREES, HOMES, AND FENCES. When building your bonfire, chose a very large open area outside. A bonfire should be 50 feet away from any structure.

>> MISTAKE #2: KEEPING IT A SURPRISE FROM NEIGHBORS. If you have neighbors, alert them beforehand that you are having a bonfire – just in case things go left.

>> MISTAKE #3: SPARKING THE FLAME WITH FIERY FLUID. Never use flammable liquid or gas to start a bonfire, this can be dangerous.

>> MISTAKE #4: LETTING THE FIRE ROAM FREE. Never leave your bonfire! Always keep watch over it. Make sure that children and pets do not get too close to the fire.

>> MISTAKE #5: HAVING THE WRONG ATTIRE. Never wear loose clothes, always wear gloves when you are working with the fire.

To solve these types of mistakes, I can also suggest checking out ServiceMaster Restore’s blogs – a tool for fire, water, and smoke safety and more for homes and businesses.