Fall is the perfect time of year to have a toasty bonfire to combat those colder evenings. But before you start building that cozy fire in your back yard, make sure you’re aware of safety and permit requirements.
Check out these bonfire safety tips for Minnesota homes to keep your fall festivities safe.
Learn Your City’s Bonfire Requirements
Before you start any sort of fire, it is important to understand the safety requirements put forth by your city. In Orono, a permit is not required for bonfires, however, there are a few restrictions to be aware of:
Minimum 50′ from buildings
Minimum 25′ from lot lines
3′ Maximum diameter
3′ Maximum height
Fires may be conducted between 7 AM and 11 PM
In a residential area, adhering to these precautions is important not just for the safety of you and your loved ones, but for your neighbors as well. For a full list of frequently asked questions regarding bonfires and other open burning requirements, visit the Orono City website.
Know the Weather Conditions
Check the forecast before you plan your bonfire. In the city of Orono, winds cannot exceed 15 mph in order to prevent sparks from landing on nearby surfaces or excess smoke from bothering neighbors.
Avoid Accelerants
Do not use flammable or combustible items such as lighter fluid or gasoline to get your fire going. This could lead to an uncontrollable fire or create dangerous fumes. When lighting your fire, use matches or a lighter to ignite tinder (paper, twigs or dry leaves) to get your fire started, and add more twigs and a few logs to keep the fire strong. This will keep your bonfire to a safe and reasonable size.
Additionally, do not add any combustible items to the fire once it has started. This includes batteries, alcohol, fireworks, or aerosol.
Be Mindful of Children and Pets
Bonfires are a great opportunity to involve friends and family, roast a few marshmallows or some hot dogs and enjoy the fall weather. But small children and pets can easily be attracted to the fire and put themselves at risk. Make sure to keep pets and children at a safe distance from the fire, show them a safe path to walk to avoid a potentially dangerous trip, and keep them in proper clothing and footwear.
Have Proper Fire Extinguishing Equipment
Keep a substantial amount of water, sand or a fire extinguisher nearby for both emergencies and when you are ready to put out your bonfire. When you are ready to put out your fire, use a shovel to properly distribute the ashes to let them cool. Pour water or sand over the ashes, and monitor them closely to ensure that the embers are properly burnt out.
Bonfires are a fantastic way to celebrate the beauty of fall. Gather friends, family and neighbors for a night of bonfire fun without putting anyone’s safety at risk. For additional bonfire safety tips for Minnesota residents, check out the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for all the information you need to stay safe this season.