Has the air quality in your area been significantly affected by the wildfires in Canada? A few weeks ago, those of us in Wisconsin experienced the overpowering scent of smoke and observed hazy skies, indicating the presence of airborne particles.
The impact has not been limited to our region alone, as my dad and my sister's family on the east coast have also endured similar challenges. In fact, I received a photo from them one day, and it was astonishing to see everything tinged in an eerie shade of orange, underscoring the severity of the situation they were facing.
I can't even imagine the air quality for any of our GON readers who actually live in Canada.
Of course, in addition to the challenges of air quality caused by wildfires, there are other dangers that we need to be mindful of, right on our own doorsteps.
Here are 21 actionable steps to mitigate potential fire risks during the summer months.
1. Position the grill at least 10 feet away from any thing that may catch on fire, like your house and trees.
2. Store pool chemicals in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
3. Inspect and replace damaged or frayed extension cords used for outdoor
activities.
4. Maintain a defensible space around your home by clearing dry brush, leaves, and vegetation.
6. Regularly clean gutters and roofs to remove dry debris that can ignite.
7. Use
designated fire rings or pits for campfires and keep the fire contained.
8. Ensure proper electrical grounding for pool equipment and lighting.
9. Inspect and maintain outdoor electrical appliances, such as fans, misters, and lights.
10. Turn off and unplug outdoor appliances when not in use or during severe weather.
11. Allow fireplace and fire pit ashes to cool completely before disposal.
12. Use a metal container with a tight-fitting lid for ash
disposal.
13. Have a well-defined evacuation plan in case of a fire-related emergency.
14.
Regularly review and practice the evacuation plan with all household members.
16. Keep important documents and valuables in a fireproof safe or off-site storage. 17. Install and maintain smoke detectors in every bedroom and on each level of your home.
18. Keep flammable materials, such as gasoline and lighter fluid, stored in approved containers away from heat
sources.
19. Check and maintain the condition of outdoor electrical outlets and wiring, repairing any damage promptly.
20. Keep a fire extinguisher designed for flammable liquid fires in close proximity to outdoor cooking areas, such as the grill or fire pit.
21. Practice proper cigarette disposal by using designated ashtrays and ensuring that cigarettes are completely extinguished
before discarding them. Avoid smoking near flammable materials. In fact, avoid smoking altogether. It's a great time, if you smoke, to break the habit.
Remember to prioritize safety, adapt the checklist to your specific needs, and regularly review and update your home safety
measures.
