CAMPFIRES

Fields of grass can become extremely dry in the hotter months, and with outdoor events such as barbecues, there is a chance that fire could spread easily.

If you are starting a campfire in an outdoor area, you need to ensure that you know how to put out a fire. The safest way to do this is to douse the fire with water immediately. Make sure you pack the appropriate tools, such as a bucket for water when you stay at a?campsite.

Choose a safe location that is away from overly grassy areas, overhanging trees or anything in your immediate environment that could ignite?a fire. By digging a foot deep hole surrounded by rocks, you can get your fire started in the safest way possible.

Always ignite small twigs, leaves or dry grass?with a match or lighter – do not use gasoline to start a campfire. Someone must always be present while burning a bonfire even when it is smouldering.

BARBECUES

Whether it be in your family garden or on a camping holiday, you should always barbecue safely and responsibly.

Depending on the type of barbecue you are planning to use, different safety measures are suggested. Whichever barbecue you use, ensure that it is in good working condition to prevent the risk of fire. Never use flammable liquids to light a barbecue and?only use barbecues?in safe areas away from fences, sheds and anything that could catch fire.

CHARCOAL BARBECUES

Official charcoal starter fluid is necessary if you are using a charcoal barbecue. Charcoal barbecues need to be on a flat surface – without too much charcoal on the grill – since it could tip and start a fire on the floor. After you have finished with your charcoal, make sure it is totally cold.?

GAS BARBECUES

Before using a gas barbecue, you need to properly check for propane leaks. When storing gas cylinders, you must keep them safely away from direct sunlight and icy conditions. When you are finished with using it, you need to turn the gas supply off and then the barbecue to prevent any leaks.

ELECTRICAL FIRES

Did you know that electrical fires are most common during the summertime, especially in unexpected heatwaves? When it gets too hot, especially in working environments and at home, we tend to bring the fans and air conditioner units out to cool down. However, if you’re not careful, there’s a chance you can cause electrical fires due to overloading plug sockets or unsafe appliances.

If sockets, adapters or extension leads are overloaded, they can overheat and potentially cause a fire. You should always check the condition of your cooling devices before use, keeping an eye out for general wear and tear or loose cables.

NATURAL FIRES

Summer can be one of the most dangerous seasons for?fire-related injuries. With the sunny weather conditions, we are subject to more lightning strikes, which are at their peak in the summer months. Drier weather conditions and high temperatures create high risk of fire.?

To prevent fire caused by lightning strikes, you need to maintain your lawn, trees and bushes around your property.

Keeping gutters clear and tidy will also help reduce the risk of debris catching fire.

We are now helping?15 year old Galit Karni.?She?needs more trauma therapy ASAP ($100/session/week).

Mendy is now 14. His injuries of 60% burns on his upper body at age 7 contribute to daily challenges with his self-image. Mendy needs another operation in Shriner Burn Hospital in Cincinnati to relieve scarring and contractions of the skin that severely constrict his movement. The Pollacks need help to pay for three airline tickets to Cincinnati which cost about $1000 each. They will be traveling in three to four months. ( I was recently speaking to Mrs. Pollak. She told me of the tremendous gratitude her family has to the donors who contributed to the purchase of a special machine last October that?makes hot water: two hours of boiling water, that fills Mendy's daily baths, combating infections and giving him a bit of relaxation).

Nissim (2 years old) has been?in?the hospital for 6 weeks (2 skin grafts). He is now at a rehabilitation hospital for children in Jerusalem (Alyn). He?needs money for creams (1 container which lasts for about a week costs $60)?and soon he will also need pressure garments.?
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