Submitted Media Release
Having a campfire is a summer-time favourite for many people. Toasting marshmallows is a perfect way to spend time with family and friends. “We want everyone to make great memories this summer,” said Tom Waldschmidt, Fire Prevention Officer for the County of Brant. “Campfire safety is important.”
The County of Brant Fire Department offers the following campfire safety tips:
· When you prepare the campfire pit, clear space, about three meters wide, around the pit. Remove pine needles, grass, leaves and twigs from the area and ensure you have a pail of water and a shovel to control the fire.
· When you build your campfire, keep the fire small. It should be less than one metre wide. Small fires are safer, easier to control, and easier to put out. A small fire will also keep cooking tools from blackening and let you get close enough to cook.
· The campfire should be at least 15 meters from any building, structure, hedge, fence, roadway and/or property line (as noted in the Open Air Burning bylaw).
· Stay nearby your fire. Never leave a campfire unattended. If you start a campfire, you are responsible for tending it, ensuring it is kept under control, and putting it out.
· When you are finished, put the fire out by pouring lots of water on the campfire. Stir the ashes with a stick and pour more water over top of it. Repeat these steps until there is no more smoke coming from the ashes.
“To keep kids safe around a campfire always have adult supervision and ensure kids never play with matches or fireworks,” said Waldschmidt. “Whether in the backyard of your home, the cottage or at a campground, make fire safety a priority.”
For more information, visit www.brant.ca/OpenAirBurning.
If you have any questions about fire safety, please contact the Fire Prevention Officers; Tom, Jeff and Doug, at the County of Brant Fire Department; 519.442.4500. We’re here for you!
