City of Evanston - Fire & Life-Safety Services - Prevention

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Fire & Life Safety Services

SUMMER SAFETY

Yard Safety Barbecue Safety Fourth of July Safety

Yard Safety

Keep children away from any work area where outdoor equipment is being used, like lawn mowers, ladders and power saws.
If a child enters any work area, immediately turn off any power equipment.
Do not allow children to operate or play with any type of outdoor power equipment, even when it is not in use.
Riding mowers should never carry passengers, especially children.
Clear the work area of any objects such as twigs, stones and toys that could be picked up and thrown by lawn mower blades.

Barbecue Safety

Review the City of Evanston Fire Prevention Code relating to bbq grillls
Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the venture tubes – where the air and gas mix – are not blocked.
Do not overfill the propane tank
Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.
When using lighter fluid, do not add it to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
Keep all matches and lighters away form children. Supervise children around outdoor grills.
Dispose of hot coals properly – douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.
Never grill in enclosed areas – carbon monoxide could be produced.

Fourth of July Safety

During the summer, especially around the Fourth of July, the number of children playing with fire dramatically increases. The consequences of just one fire play incident can be devastating to a family. In addition to burn injury, loss of life, and property damage, families can be held financially and legally responsible.

Keep your child and family safe with these precautions:

Put matches, lighters, and ignition devices in a safe, secure place. Treat these items as you would a dangerous weapon.
Set clear rules and expectations about their access to matches and fire play.
Talk about peer pressure and what your child should do if they are around other kids who are playing with fire. Teach them to leave the situation and report it to an adult.
Talk about the consequences of fire property damage, injury, and loss of life.
Practice fire safety in your home. Install and maintain smoke detectors and develop and practice a home escape plan.
Remember early identification and intervention is critical.