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Summer Safety
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Safe in the Summer Sun

This summer, when you’re doing all the things that make the season so fun, be sure to do them safely.

Barbecuing:
When it comes to barbecuing, the first thing to remember is to keep the BBQ away from other things, including the house and any shrubs or bushes.

If you’re using a charcoal grill, use only starter fluid made for BBQ’s. Never use gasoline and never add liquid fuel to reignite or build up an existing fire.

If you have a gas BBQ, turn off the valves when you’re not using it and store the gas cylinder outdoors, away from any buildings. Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions, and if repairs are needed, use a trained professional.

No matter which type of grill you have, don’t leave it unattended after lighting.

Pool chemical safety:
Hydrogen chloride pool-care products, particularly liquid and solid chlorine-based oxidizers, may, in some instances, spontaneously combust. Chances of spontaneous combustion increases when the chemicals are contaminated by organic material, such as body fluids, acid rain, or hydrocarbons, such as fuel or motor oils. If a fire does occur, the fumes will be toxic.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and storage directions. Store chemicals outside of your home, in a separate storage shed, and away from heat sources. Keep the chemicals in a dry location. If the chemical container is punctured or damaged, dispose of the chemicals properly.

Gasoline Safety:
Store gasoline outside your house, preferably in a locked, detached shed. Keep it up high in a clearly marked, approved container. Keep the gasoline and all flammable liquids away from any heat source or open flame, including pilot lights.

Use gasoline as a motor fuel only. Only store the minimum amount needed to power your gasoline fueled equipment.

Before fueling, extinguish smoking materials and take the equipment outside into an open area. Wipe up any spills immediately, and move the equipment at least 10 feet from the fueling area before starting.

Before refueling, turn the off the equipment and let it cool completely.

Camping:
We recommend that you use a flame-retardant tent, and always pitch it away from your campfire. Inside the tent, use only battery-powered lanterns or flashlights. Do not use liquid fueled heaters or lanterns inside your tent or any other enclosed space. This is not only a fire hazard, but a carbon monoxide hazard, as well.

Build your campfire down wind of your tent, clearing away all dry vegetation and digging a pit surrounded by rocks. Before you retire for the night or leave your campsite, pour water on the fire or cover it well with dirt. “Make sure the fire is totally extinguished”. Look for signs in our National or Provincial parks or campgrounds that warn of potential fire hazards and always obey park service rules.

Boating:
Before you fuel your vessel, extinguish smoking materials and shut off all motors, fans and heating equipment. Make sure the fueling nozzle is grounded to the fuel intake.

When filling the tank, don’t fill it all the way; leave room for expansion. Wipe any spills immediately and check the bilge for fuel leaks and odors. Before starting the engines, ventilate with the blower for at least five minutes. If you have a covered vessel, install a smoke alarm and test it each time you use the boat. Replace the battery once a year.

Landscaping:
Trim tree limbs so they don’t hang over the roof of your home. Keep eaves and gutters free of leaves and other debris that burn easily. Clear weeds, brush and other flammable vegetation at least 30 feet away from your home. Store firewood away from all structures. Check with local authorities before burning trash or debris outside. If you do burn trash, supervise the fire closely, keep a charged garden hose nearby and keep children well away from the area.



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