Thinking about cozying up around the fire this weekend? As one Gravenhurst cottager recently learned via a hefty fine, ensuring that the embers are fully extinguished is a must.
Last August, a wildland fire was reported near an empty cottage on Gull Lake. An investigation found that the owner had made a small fire on the forest floor—not within a firepit—a few days prior. The cottager poured water on the burned area, thinking it was out, then left the property.
As neighbours quickly learned, the fire, in fact, not out. It had maintained a state of sustained combustion that, combined with hot and dry weather, created the perfect recipe for an out-of-control fire. While no one was injured, the rapidly-growing flames caused a power outage on a portion of the lake. The cottager at fault was ultimately fined over $5,700 for unsafe burning practices.
With summer in full swing comes all the more opportunity for fire risks. And as wildfires continue to pick up in speed, intensity, and frequency across the country, keeping on top of fire safety is a must. From barbecues and campfires to firework shows, here are a few easy tips for safe burning at the cottage.
1. Follow local guidelines
The number one priority is listening to the experts in your area. Take note of local advisories, including municipal fire restrictions and broader Restricted Fire Zones put in place by the province. The rules can change quickly, particularly during peak fire season, so stay in the loop.
2. Properly store combustible materials
Between fuel and firewood, your cottage is likely home to an array of combustible materials. Storing flammables at least 10 metres from the cottage will help keep your property safe in the event of a fire. Avoid storing firewood and other dried debris underneath your cottage on blocks and piers.
3. Inspect and clean your barbecue
The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs recommends cleaning your barbecue at least once a year—and it’s not just for aesthetic purposes. Check your go-to outdoor cooking appliance for grease drips, broken parts, and gas leaks. Call in a pro if you find anything suspicious. If your propane cylinder is more than 10 years old, it also must be inspected and re-certified.
For further safety, place your barbecue at least one metre from the cottage and away from other combustibles.
4. Only use designated firepits—and ensure the flames are fully out
Summer nights call for a warm campfire—when it’s safe to do so. Check local regulations, including fire bans and size guidelines, before lighting up your designated fire pit.
Keep your fire at least 10 feet from anything that could catch fire, being careful to remove dried debris—including pine needles, grass, and leaves—from around the one-metre perimeter of the pit. Never light a fire when it’s windy or leave it unattended. Keep a bucket of water nearby just in case.
Once you’re ready to head back inside, putting out the fire is a must. Even if a fire looks like it’s out, it can stay in a state of combustion—as the aforementioned cottager found out. Pour a bucket of water over the fire, stir the ashes with a stick, then add more water. Repeat until the ashes don’t hiss and you’re rid of smoke plumes.
5. Be cautious when setting off fireworks
Though some communities are now opting out of traditional fireworks in favour of more environmentally- and noise-friendly drone shows, if fireworks are still your thing, be sure to take a few safety considerations into account.
Choose a clear, open area. Refer to the firework’s label for specific information on how far spectators should position themselves.
Bury fireworks that do not have a base about halfway in a container of earth or sand. Set the fireworks at a 10-degree angle, directing them away from onlookers. Extinguish used fireworks in a pail of water; if a firework didn’t go off, wait at least 30 minutes before approaching it.
6. Have an emergency go-bag
While you hope you’ll never have to use it, a grab-and-go emergency bag is important to have on hand in the event of an evacuation. Everyone in your cottage should have their own kit tailored to their needs, loaded with water, a small-first aid kit, cash, and more.
It’s just as important to keep fire safety equipment, including an up-to-date fire extinguisher, handy.
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