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Don’t Allow Your Backyard Fire to Become the Next Disaster | SERVPRO® of Van Nuys South
7/19/2022 (Permalink)
If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Van Nuys South.
Most people in America have enjoyed the warmth of an outdoor fire on a cool night, either for eating hotdogs and telling stories or just to watch the flames burn.
Fires are used in many ways—for survival, enjoyment or as a way to clean out dead leaves and debris. However, fires are always potentially dangerous, and according to the National Park Service, almost 85% of wildfires are started by humans.
In California, we understand the risk of wildfires all too well. In the past 10 years, we have seen record-setting flames consume much of our beautiful state’s vegetation, and unfortunately, many of our homes. In the San Fernando Valley region, we see a slightly lower risk due to our area’s geography, but we should still have extreme caution with these disasters.
This shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying and using fire for all of your needs. Outdoor fires can be done properly by using the right safety procedures, allowing you to grill food and char marshmallows as much as you desire.
All types of fires come with some risk, but fireworks and grills are two of the most common ways outdoor fires begin. Grills alone start approximately 8,800 fires each year, mostly due to user error. It’s crucial to double-check that the propane is off and that the gas lines are secure before leaving your grill alone.
If you decide to have a backyard fire, pick a location that is away from your home, vehicles or any excess piles of wood. Additionally, you should only burn wood in the fire and pay attention to the area surrounding the fire so that embers don’t ignite something else.
Many American families have added fire pits to their backyard, as it gives a campsite feel while still on your own property. These pits carry similar risks to other kinds of fire, though, so make sure that you follow the same precautions that you would with any flame.
Additionally, a lot of people choose to get rid of household or construction debris with fire, but this is dangerous to both your home and your health. Only burn approved firewood to reduce your risk of starting the next natural disaster.
Although fires have risks associated with them, they can still be a useful tool for us in more rural areas. When leaf buildup happens fast, using a controlled fire to eliminate the debris can often be the most efficient way.
Because of our region’s extreme risk of wildfires, outdoor burning is usually banned year-round in our state. However, our government understands that burning excess material safely is sometimes the best way to prevent an even worse uncontrolled fire. Check out this official page that lists the permit requirements and burn bans for various areas in California.
Removing the dead plant material is a key part of protecting your property from outdoor fires. Dead leaves and limbs serve as additional fuel for any wildfire, so understanding what to burn and learning the proper safety measures can help you clear your land correctly.
Most homes store gas and oil in their shed or garage for a variety of reasons, but improper storage can put your home at serious risk. Only use approved containers for these materials and keep them out of the reach of children or animals.
Whenever you have a fire outside, it’s important to check the local weather and advisories for any signs that you should stop. When the air is dry and the winds are blowing, it’s a good idea to save the fire for next time.
However, if you do suffer fire damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Van Nuys South. Our restoration team is equipped with industry-leading technology and decades of experience handling every type of damage.
Burn safely outdoors. And save some chocolate for us! If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact us today to get restoration started faster.