Illinois State Fire Marshal issues campfire safety tips

ILLINOIS (WCIA) — As most of the burn bans have lifted across the state, the Illinois State Fire Marshal has issued numerous campfire safety tips as the weather gets cooler.

The number of bonfires increases as Illinois heads into the fall months. But with that means people need to be more careful when enjoying s’mores, stories and laughs by the campfire.

To get started, people should check their local regulations before lighting a bonfire due to the fact some areas may still have burn restrictions in place. Illinoisans are also urged to avoid campfires on windy days; wind can quickly spread sparks and embers.

People are urged to keep any fires they start at least 25 feet from buildings, trees and other flammable materials. And in case things do go wrong, make sure you have a water source or fire extinguisher nearby. This could include things such as a hose, bucket of water, shovel, dirt or sand nearby to put out the fire effectively.

The Illinois State Fire Marshal also said to make sure you never leave your bonfire unattended and to make sure it’s completely out before leaving. The use of gasoline or lighter fluid to start or reignite a fire is also prohibited.

People should also make sure they clear away dry leaves, sticks, overhanging low branches and scrubs before starting a fire. Keeping a bonfire small is essential to keeping it under control.

Always watch children while the fire is actively burning. Adults are urged to never let children or pets play or stand too close to the flames.

And in the event your clothes do catch fire, the Illinois State Fire Marshal advises all people to stop, drop and roll: Stop, drop to the ground and cover your face with your hands. Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out.

If you do get burned, treat it right away. Cool the burn with cool water for 3-5 minutes and cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth. Seek medical help if needed.

In regard to roasting marshmallows specifically, parents are urged to help their young children. Never shake a roasting marshmallow because it can turn into a flying, flaming ball. The heated metal skewer used to roast marshmallows can also cause burns.

The Illinois State Fire Marshal said campfire accidents send thousands of people to emergency rooms with burn injuries every year. These tips are being issued in an effort to reduce these numbers and keep people safe across the state.