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6 FALL FUN GUIDE / SEPTEMBER 2020 By Bella Kostolni Special to The Freeman WAUKESHA — Roasting s'mores around a cozy campfire sounds like the perfect end to an autumn night. But before you strike a match, it is essen- tial that you take the proper precautions in order to ensure a safe and memorable experi- ence for everyone involved. The Fire Prevention Bureau of the Waukesha Fire Department offers the following tips to help prevent campfire mishaps: • Do your research. Check with your local fire department to see if campfires are permit- ted. Rules and regulations may vary by city or town. Be sure to do your research before light- ing a fire. • Choose the right night. Burning on dry and/or windy days is dangerous and fires can easily spread out of control. • Prep the area. If camp- fires are permitted in your area, make sure they are at least 25 feet away from any structure and anything that can burn. Don't start your campfire under low hanging branches or shrubs. Clear the area of any dry leaves and sticks. Keep a hose, bucket of water or shovel with dirt or sand nearby to quickly extin- guish the fire should it get out of hand. • Stand guard. Never leave a campfire unattended. If left alone, it could easily grow into a damaging blaze. It is best to keep campfires small, as they are easier to control. Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids. • Watch the kids. Never let children or pets play or stand too close to the fire. Always help young children when roasting marshmallows. Don't shake a roasting marshmallow. It can easily catch fire and turn into a flying ball of flames. Heated metal skewers can cause burns, so be sure to help kids while handling them. • Stop, drop and roll. If your clothing catches fire, stop, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands and roll back and forth or over and over until the fire is out. • Treat burns quickly and properly. Soothe the burn with cool water for three to five minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth. Seek medical help if necessary. • Completely extinguish the fire. Before leaving the site of your campfire, completely put it out. Smoldering embers still have the potential to ignite. For more information, call the Waukesha Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau at 262- 524-3648. For fire emergencies, call 911. How to have a fun and safe backyard campfire

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