Stay Safe this Fall While Enjoying the Outdoors!
Now that we're well into the fall season, it's important to be extra cautious when it comes to outdoor fires. With the combination of dry and hot summer months, dying leaves, and warm and breezy conditions, it doesn't take much for a small fire to turn into a dangerous inferno. With campfires and burn pits becoming increasingly common during this time of year, it's a good idea to review some important safety tips for outdoor burning to prevent any potential hazards.
Outdoor Burning Safety Tips:
Avoid burning outdoors during any of the following conditions or a combination of conditions:
Before you start a controlled fire, be sure to have a bucket of water or hose nearby to help prevent the fire from spreading out of your container.
- If you live near trees, maintain a large clearance between the fire and the tree line.
- Check above you to ensure any heat or embers from your fire are well away from trees, overhangs, and utility lines.
- Only burn organic materials like wood and brush, never plastics.
- Ensure a 10-foot ring of dirt or gravel around any fire pit.
- Keep any flammable materials at least 30 feet away from your fire.
- Monitor the fire at all times to ensure embers or brands aren’t spreading.
- Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving it.
- Make a quick check of the area for a few days to make sure no hot spots remain.
- If you have an unexpected fire, dial 9-1-1 immediately to report it.
Is it OK to burn?
Some municipalities have ordinances prohibiting open burning or only allow an open flame for cooking.
- Check for burn bans if conditions are more likely for rapid-fire spread.
- Burning may require a permit, including bonfires.
- If you plan to burn on your property, you may want to notify your local fire company or county 9-1-1 center using a non-emergency line.
If you're looking for more information and resources on outdoor burning safety, you can check out the Office of the State Fire Commissioner page, PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources page, and the Smokey Bear page. These pages provide helpful tips and guidelines to help you stay safe while enjoying outdoor fires.