For many people, Memorial Day weekend means the beginning of summer grilling and bonfires.
But those relaxing at a cookout should keep their backyards safe by making sure no one uses gasoline to light the fire. A Prince William County firefighter is working with a national group to help get that message out to people across the country.
Bob Wall, the public safety education coordinator for Prince William County fire and rescue, said gas fires are dangerous because the fumes alone are combustible.
“People don’t realize how out of control gasoline fires get very quickly. They don’t think they will ignite,” said Wall, who is part of a National Gasoline Safety Project campaign to prevent gas fires.
The project aims to spread the word about the dangers of gas fires. It’s ramping up efforts as summer begins and more people are lighting outdoor fires.
Amanda Emerson, the campaign administrator, said the project is partnering with the trade association for gas can manufacturers to put a “hang tag” on all cans warning people not to use gasoline to light fires. Local spokespeople, including Wall, a burn victim and a surgeon are doing outreach efforts in their areas.
They’re also producing educational materials that fire departments nationwide can distribute. And the project is using social media sites like Twitter and Facebook to remind people about fire safety and highlight departments’ safety campaigns, Emerson said.
“If that’s a way to get to a lot of people, that’s what we’re going to do,” Wall said of the social media efforts. He said the sites are ways to reach teenagers going camping or hosting bonfires who might not know proper safety protocols.
About 1,500 children are hurt in gas fires each year, according to National Electronic Injury Surveillance System estimates.
