How to hold a safe bonfire event
09/01/2024
Bonfires add a magical touch to your celebrations, whether it’s a summer gathering, Guy Fawkes Night, or even a cozy winter evening. However, lighting a bonfire comes with its own set of risks.
Establishing everyone’s safety while making the most out of the experience requires essential planning and adherence to safety guidelines. In this article, we discuss how to safely light and enjoy a bonfire for your charity event.
Planning and Preparation
Choosing the Right Location:
Selecting a site is the first step in having a safe bonfire. Your bonfire should be built in an open space, far away from any properties, trees or other flammable materials. Plan for a minimum distance of 15 meters from buildings and wooded areas, the same distance is recommended for audience members as well. If possible, use a pre-existing fire pit or create a non-flammable barrier using stones or bricks.
Check Local Regulations:
Before gathering materials like wood, check local fire regulations. Some areas have specific rules on the size of bonfires, the materials used, and even the times of day when fires can be lit. You may also need a permit, so make sure to get all the necessary permissions. Make sure to let your local fire brigade know about your event.
Weather Conditions:
Weather is a crucial role in the safety of your bonfire. Do not light a bonfire on a windy day as winds can carry sparks to unintended areas, causing fires. A calm day is ideal, making sure smoke and flames can be easily controlled. Check the weather report in advance, and make sure the wind direction is thought about when deciding where to position the bonfire. Ideally downwind of properties, audience members and other at risk areas.
Gather Materials:
Collect dry, seasoned wood for your bonfire. Do not use green, wet/ damp wood or wood that’s been treated (painted or oiled) as it can produce excessive smoke and unexpected sparks. Never use flammable liquids like petrol or lighter fluid to start the fire. Instead, use kindling such as twigs, newspaper or commercially available fire starters.
Safety Equipment:
Before lighting the bonfire, check you have the necessary safety equipment to hand. This includes a bucket of sand, water, a fire extinguisher and a shovel. It’s also a good idea to have a garden hose nearby fully extended and ready to use, in case things get out of control.
Create an emergency plan
Have a clear emergency plan in place. Make sure everyone knows where the nearest phone is and has the contact number for emergency services. Have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand and make sure there is someone who can give basic first aid on site.
Lighting the Bonfire
Building the Bonfire:
Arrange the wood into a mound or triangle shape in the centre of the pit. This structure allows for good airflow, helping the fire to catch and grow steadily.
Ignition:
Make sure to check for any wildlife that may have crawled into your bonfire when you were building it in the pit. Hedgehogs, frogs and other wildlife will often hide or shelter in here.
Light the kindling at several points to have an even burn. Use a long match or a long-nosed lighter to keep your hands at a safe distance from the flames.
Keeping a safe distance:
Once the fire is lit, never leave it unattended and have someone supervising the bonfire at all times. Keep children and pets at a safe distance and create a safety zone to prevent anyone getting too close to the flames.
Set up seating/ spectating at least 15 meters away from the fire. This makes sure everyone can enjoy the warmth without being in harm's way. Use this opportunity to establish the safety zone you’ve created, making it clear to all attendees where they can and cannot go.
Wear sensible clothing
Clothing can be a fire hazard. Avoid wearing loose or flowing clothing that could easily catch fire. Wear non-flammable clothing, and make sure long hair is tied back.
Supervising the Bonfire
Make sure you have enough people stationed around the bonfire so that it’s not left unattended. This will also help stop any attendees from getting too close as well as monitoring any stray sparks.
Extinguishing the Bonfire
Let the Fire Burn Down:
When you’re nearing the end of your event, stop adding wood to the fire and let it burn down naturally. This will make it easier to extinguish the remaining embers.
Douse with Water:
Once the flames have subsided, slowly pour water over the fire, starting from the perimeter and working your way inward. Stir the embers with a shovel to ensure all parts of the fire are extinguished. Continue adding water and stirring until there is no steam, hissing, or visible heat emanating from the embers.
Check for Hot Spots:
Even after dousing the fire, it’s essential to check for any remaining hot spots. Use the back of your hand to feel for heat above the fire pit. If you find any warm areas, continue adding water and stirring until they are completely cool.
Summary
A bonfire can be a delightful addition to any event, providing warmth, light, and a focal point for socialising. However, it is essential to prioritise safety at all times. By choosing the right location, preparing in advance and following safety guidelines, you can ensure that your bonfire is both enjoyable and safe for everyone involved. Always remember, a safe bonfire is a fun bonfire. Enjoy the flames responsibly!
