Fire Safety Rules for Outdoor Parties

Outdoor parties in the backyard or around the pool are delightful ways to spend time with friends and family. However, safety should be your top priority when hosting any kind of party, especially when you’re using open flames for lighting or ambiance. Fire sources such as candles, portable outdoor fireplaces, sky lanterns, patio (tiki) torches and fire pits can start a fire in your backyard if they’re not used carefully. Here are some practical tips to prevent fires during your next outdoor party:

• If there are children and pets at the party, always supervise them and keep them at least 3 feet away from flames.
• If the scene is decorated with burning candles, use sturdy candle holders to help prevent candles from being tipped over.
• More than half of all candle fires start when objects that can burn are too close to candles. Keep flammable objects far away from candles and any other open flame.
• We strongly recommend using battery-operated flameless candles and patio torches instead of their more dangerous, open-flame counterparts.
• Always remain present when a portable fireplace is in use, or assign another responsible adult to monitor it. For additional portable fireplace safety tips, check out our comprehensive guide on fireplace safety tips.
• Keep in mind that sky candles are prohibited by NFPA code requirements, so consider using something safer instead, such as kites or streamers.
• If you’re going to make a campfire, build it in a fire pit to help prevent fire from spreading. Never leave the fire unattended, and keep a water source nearby.
• If you’re grilling, keep the grill at least 10 feet away from structures and don’t turn on the gas with the lid closed.

Pool activities offer fun and healthy recreation but can also pose risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. Explore our pool safety checklist for essential guidelines to keep everyone safe. Additionally, ensure your celebrations are secure by reviewing our holiday party safety checklist for helpful tips on hosting responsibly. To learn how to stay safe in a place of public assembly, such as a club or restaurant, follow these safety tips. For professional fire, water, and mold restoration services, contact your local PuroClean office.