Bonfire safety tips

Fall is here and there are some tips to keep everyone safe around the fire – especially kids.

A doctor with Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital says it’s essential to make sure the bonfire is 20 to 25 feet away from houses, decks and other structures.

It’s also important to keep the fire a safe distance from bushes and low-hanging trees.

When building a fire, don’t use grass as a base and stay away from softer woods like construction lumber and pine, since they can give off more sparks.

Kids should have adult supervision and stay at least three feet away from the bonfire. Plus, they must wear proper shoes and avoid flammable clothing like nylon or anything loose fitting.

As for potential injuries, children often get hurt when they throw items into the fire, like leftover Fourth of July fireworks.

If someone suffers a minor burn, try running cool water over the area. There should also be access to a garden hose, fire extinguisher or even sand to douse the flames if needed.