🔥 Grill and Bonfire Safety Tips for Summer

Keep Your Cookouts Safe and Fire-Free

Nothing says summer like grilling dinner in the backyard or sitting around a crackling bonfire with friends. But while those flames may set the mood, they also come with serious risks if not handled safely.

Each year, thousands of fires start from outdoor cooking and recreational burning—many of them entirely preventable. At Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company, we want your summer memories to be warm for all the right reasons.

Here’s how to enjoy grilling and bonfires safely all summer long:

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🍔 Grill Safety Tips

Whether you’re using gas or charcoal, keep these essentials in mind:

✅ Set Up Safely

• Keep grills at least 10 feet away from your home, garage, deck railings, and overhangs.
  
• Never grill indoors or in an enclosed area—not even in a garage with the door open.
  
• Set your grill on a flat, stable surface, away from dry grass or leaves.
  

🔥 Before You Light

• For gas grills: Check the propane tank, hose, and connections for leaks before every use. A mix of soap and water will bubble if there’s a leak.
  
• For charcoal grills: Use starter fluid sparingly—never add it once the coals are hot.
  

👨‍🍳 While Grilling

• Never leave the grill unattended. Fires can flare up quickly.
  
• Keep kids and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill area.
  
• Have a spray bottle or fire extinguisher nearby in case of flare-ups.
  

🧯 After You’re Done

• Let coals cool completely before disposing. Soak them in water, then place in a metal container.
  
• Turn off the gas supply on propane grills when not in use.
  

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🔥 Bonfire Safety Tips

Backyard fires can be a great way to unwind—but they also need serious attention.

🔍 Before You Burn

• Check local ordinances or fire bans. Even small recreational fires may be restricted during dry weather.
  
• Only burn dry, seasoned wood. Avoid trash, treated lumber, or construction debris, which can release toxic smoke.
  

🪵 Setting Up

• Use a fire pit or burn ring on bare dirt, gravel, or a fire-resistant surface—never directly on grass or a wooden deck.
  
• Keep the fire at least 25 feet away from structures, trees, and anything flammable.
  
• Know and follow your local fire safety regulations.
  

🔥 While Burning

• Keep fires small and manageable. A roaring bonfire may look fun, but it’s harder to control.
  
• Never use accelerants (like gasoline) to start or revive a fire.
  
• Always have a bucket of water, hose, or shovel nearby for emergencies.
  
• Don’t walk away from an active fire—even for a minute.
  

💧 When You’re Done

• Douse the fire completely with water. Stir the ashes to expose hot spots, then douse again.
  
• Don’t leave until the fire is fully out and cool to the touch.
  

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🌈 Summer Safety Starts with You

A little preparation goes a long way in preventing fires—and ensuring everyone enjoys their time outside. Whether you’re flipping burgers or telling ghost stories around the flames, stay alert and stay safe.

From everyone at Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company, have a safe, fire-smart summer!

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🔥 Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company Needs You

We’re your neighbors, friends, and family—100% volunteer and always ready to answer the call. But we can’t do it alone.

Whether you’re interested in firefighting or supporting behind the scenes, there’s a role for you at Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company. No experience needed—we’ll provide the training, gear, and support.

Are you ready to make a difference? [Click here to learn more and get involved]