Hatzoloh of Jerusalem printed a list of safety precautions to
keep in mind around the Lag B'Omer bonfires.
* Bonfires should be located in an area free of brush and a
safe distance from buildings and other structures.
* Bonfires should not be lit beneath telephone and electrical
wires or near trees and bushes or fuel tanks.
* Boundary limits should be fixed around the bonfire to keep
children from coming too close to the fire.
* An adult should be designated to take responsibility for
controlling the fire and supervising the children.
* All flammable materials must be kept away from the fire and
fuel jerrycans or gas canisters are strictly forbidden.
* Closed shoes, long pants and an appropriate shirt are
recommend to protect the body from coals and flying embers as
well as stings from insects, snakes and scorpions drawn to
the heat of the flame.
* The bonfire should be lit with a torch by an adult in a
safe manner.
* Extreme caution should be exercised when adding wood to the
fire.
* Do not splash fuel on a burning fire. This is very
dangerous and can lead to people catching on fire.
* Never throw into the fire spray cans, firecrackers, bullets
or shells, which can explode and harm the people around the
fire.
* When the bonfire is over be sure the fire is completely
extinguished by pouring water or dirt over the coals.
* Keep two buckets of water on hand in the event the fire
starts to spread.
* It is important to come equipped with Burnshield bandages
and to keep them nearby for immediate use in the event of a
burn.
* If your clothes catch fire stop and don't run! Lie down on
the ground and roll over several times. A blanket or large
towel can be used to cover the victim.
* In the event of a burn, bandage it with a Burnshield right
away and seek medical attention. If there are no Burnshields
on hand use water to rinse and cool the burn right away and
for an extended period and take the victim to a medical
professional.
* In the event of smoke inhalation accompanied by labored
breathing call Hatzoloh by dialing 101. If the fire is
spreading out of control dial 102 for the fire department.
According to Hatzoloh of Jerusalem numerous incidents of
damage or tragedy take place every year because insufficient
caution is exercised around the fire.
