Just because it’s hot out doesn’t mean we don’t still interact with fires and flames this time of year. Campfires, cooking out, fireworks – these are just a few of the ways we use fire for summertime enjoyment. A fun summer is a safe summer, so Mister Quik has compiled a few techniques for carefully managing some of the most common types of fires you’ll encounter this season.

 Controlling Flare-Ups

Seeing flare-ups and hearing that loud sizzle on a hot grill might look and sound exciting, but grease fires are dangerous (and not to mention can ruin your meat). Flare-ups are caused by dripping oils and greases from meat falling onto coals or hot surfaces of the grill. There are a few things you can do to keep these intense flames from getting out of control:

• Use a drip pan or aluminum foil to catch falling oil and grease.
• Move foods to an area of the grill not flaring up.
• If using a gas grill, shut off the burners.
• If using charcoal and a flare-up is very large, cover the grill with a lid and wait.

Never attempt to put out any kind of grease or oil fire with water. This can cause an explosive force and create an even larger fire.

Enjoying Campfires

Whether you’re out in the wilderness or in your own backyard, a campfire makes a summer evening just about perfect. Keep everyone around the fire safe with these simple tips:

• Less is more. Always keep your fire to a manageable size.
• Never leave your fire unattended until you are sure all coals and embers are extinguished.
• Supervise children and pets around the fire at all times.
• If roasting marshmallows, have an adult blow out any that catch fire, and never shake the sticks to snuff out the flames. 

These tips apply to campsite fires, home fire pits and even chimineas. If you can still feel heat from the fire source, it is still too hot to walk away.

Disposing Fireworks

Fourth of July is behind us, but chances are you or someone you know still has some leftover fireworks on hand. Instead of tossing pyrotechnics in the trash, dispose of them the safe and proper way:

• Clean up all the debris from used fireworks.
• Soak all fireworks (used and unused) in a bucket of water for at least 15 minutes.
• Place the wet fireworks into a metal trash can.
• Double-check your display site the next morning and pick up anything you may have missed before. 

Some jurisdictions don’t allow residents to throw away unused fireworks along with the rest of their trash. Call your local law enforcement agency and ask how to legally dispose of your unused fireworks.

Mister Quik hopes your summer has been enjoyable so far, and we wish you all a very fun and safe remainder of the season. Remember to make Mister Quik your first choice for home HVAC, electrical and plumbing sales, installations and services.