Summer is the perfect season for outdoor entertaining, family cookouts, and poolside relaxation. With more time spent outside comes more exposure to risks that could lead to accidents and insurance claims. From fire pits and pools to trampolines and grills, backyard features should be enjoyed responsibly. Here are practical tips to help keep your home and guests safe, while protecting your investment in the process.
Fire Pit Safety
Fire pits create a cozy outdoor atmosphere, but they can also pose serious hazards if not used with caution. Always place fire pits on a stable, non-combustible surface like stone or concrete, never directly on grass or a wooden deck. Position them at least 10 feet away from your home, fencing, or other structures.
Make sure flames are kept low and manageable, especially on windy nights. Keep children and pets at a safe distance and never leave a fire unattended. A bucket of water, a garden hose, or a fire extinguisher should always be within reach in case of emergencies. After the fun ends, extinguish the fire fully using water, and stir the ashes to ensure no embers remain.
Grill Safety
Grilling is a summer tradition, but it’s also one of the most common sources of outdoor home fires. Place your grill in an open area, away from siding, overhangs, and flammable materials. Regularly clean the grill to prevent grease buildup, which is a major fire hazard. For gas grills, inspect the hose and connections before each use to detect leaks or damage.
Avoid lighting the grill with the lid closed, and never leave it unattended while cooking. Use long-handled tools to minimize the risk of burns, and designate a child-free zone around the grill that’s at least three feet wide. After cooking, ensure coals are completely cooled before disposing of them.
Pool Safety
Pools offer fun and relief from the heat, but they also come with increased liability. Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death in children, so constant supervision is key. The best way to keep unsupervised children from accessing your pool is to install a four-sided fence at least four feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Always watch children and pets near water, and consider installing a pet-safe pool ramp or teaching your pets how to find the steps.
Keep lifesaving devices like floatation rings and a reaching pole nearby. Teach children to swim, and consider enrolling in CPR certification courses. Also, don’t overlook chemical storage; keep pool cleaning supplies locked up and away from kids and pets. Finally, check your homeowners insurance policy to confirm that your pool and liability limits are adequate.
Trampoline Safety
Trampolines are a popular source of backyard fun, but they also account for thousands of ER visits each year. Always use a safety net enclosure and soft padding to reduce injury risk. Only allow one jumper at a time and prohibit dangerous stunts that could result in head, neck, and other injuries. Make sure the trampoline is on level ground and placed far away from trees, fences, and other obstacles. Regularly inspect it for worn springs, holes in the mat, and rust on the frame.
Make Safety Part of the Summer Routine
Your backyard should be a place for relaxation, not regret. With a little planning and awareness, you can reduce the risk of injury, protect your home, and avoid costly insurance claims. Safety doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun, it just means being prepared. Contact us today for an insurance review and make sure your coverage matches your backyard lifestyle.
