Ah, fall. The season of falling leaves, mild weather and the long-awaited reprise from summer’s harsh temperatures. Along with the shortened days and more brisk, crisp air comes the opportunity to pull out fire pits and enjoy one of the best past times there is on a fall evening —making smores.
Is there anything better in all the world than the cozy feeling of gathering around a nice toasty fire in the company of family and friends? Of course, doing so with a commitment to fire safety is a must as the dry leaves of fall are the ideal combustible material for a wildfire and you don’t want to be the impetus of something so tragic merely from an evening of family fun. Thankfully, the information listed below will keep you safe and ensure that your fun evening remains lighthearted, without incident, but before we get into that...
Creative S'mores Recipes
Before delving into the fire safety tips you need to know how to enjoy your fire, let’s first look at some fun s'mores recipes you will want to try:
Reese Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
The graham cracker and marshmallow stay the same with this version. Simply trade the traditional chocolate bar for a delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. Pro tip: cut the PB Cup in half lengthwise and put the toasted marshmallow in between— or just opt for a whole one— either way it’s delicious!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Nutella S’mores
Make these similarly to regular s’mores only instead of using the chocolate bar, opt for Nutella spread and instead of using standard graham crackers, use two chocolate chip cookies. Roast your marshmallow the same. Yum!
Oreo Cookies S’mores
Interesting tidbit you might not know, Oreo Cookies happen to be the ideal size and shape for marshmallows. Use them in place of graham crackers for a neat twist on the typical s’mores.
Fire Safety Tips to Follow When Enjoying a Firepit or Bonfire
- Have Open Space Around Your Fire: Make sure there is no brush right against your fire pit or your bonfire. It’s even better if you remove grass that might be present in a circular radius all around your fire. Ideally, you will set up on a concrete slab or other nonflammable surfaces.
- Set up At Least 50 ft. Away From Any Buildings: Don't set your firepit up next to your house or any other buildings. At best, this could cause your siding to melt. At worst, it could start a fire.
- Keep Chairs Far Enough Away: It can be tempting to pull your chair in close to the fire to really experience the warmth. However, embers and sparks from the fire can easily catch clothing and cloth chairs on fire, so keep a safe distance.
- Be Prepared to Extinguish Flames if Needed: Keep a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby and ready to use at all times. This will give you the means of quickly getting control over a fire should it get out of hand. Don’t assume you will have time to run to get a hose or extinguisher.
- Keep an Eye on the Fire: This tip might seem obvious, but it’s amazing how many people neglect this easy step. Watch the fire. Make sure it doesn’t begin to spread or grow too large.
- Remember to Drink Responsibly: Alcohol can and often does cloud judgment. Therefore, when fire is involved, make sure you drink responsibly.
- Don’t Leave Fire Unattended: Don’t go to bed and assume the fire will be okay. Never leave the fire for even a moment.
- Consider Using Fire Screens: When possible, use fire screens to prevent fire sparks and embers from becoming fire starters.
- Don’t Wear Loose Fitting Clothing Around a Fire: Make sure your attire is appropriate for sitting near a fire. While the thought of a cozy blanket and layers seems to make sense, wearing loose clothing or using a blanket can be a bad idea near a fire as they can inadvertently catch fire without you realizing it immediately.
Bottom Line: Be Safe With Fire
If the worst happens and flames from your fire begin to spread, immediately call 911! Then, do your best to regain control of the fire. We all hope to never have to deal with the repercussions of a fire, but if you do find yourself in this stressful situation, contact your insurance agent immediately to file a claim.
