Summer Fire Safety

  • Published
  • By Grant Smith
  • 354th Civil Engineer Squadron
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  In preparation for summer, the Eielson Fire Emergency Service Flight asks that you take the time to observe a few safety guidelines when using a patio fire pit or cooking on a charcoal grill. Safe cooking will ensure that your summer is filled with joyous memories roasting marshmallows in the Alaskan outdoors.

If you use charcoal lighter fluid, use it sparingly, and never on a fire that's already ignited. Never use other flammable liquids to start coals. Keep grills away from overhanging trees, awnings or roofs at least 8-10 feet and never grill inside to include the garage.

To prevent damage to your deck, either from the grease dripping or hot embers burning the wood, it is highly recommended that you place a metal drip pan under the grill. Keep children and pets away from the grill area by declaring a 3-foot "kid-free zone" around the grill and don't wear loose fitting clothing.

After cooking always ensure that coals are completely extinguished before disposing; and never put coals into a combustible container.

The Eielson Fire and Emergency Services (Fire Department) is pleased to provide some helpful guidelines on the use of fire pits in base housing:
  • Must be supervised by an adult 
  • NEVER leave the pit unattended
  • Never use flammable liquids to start a fire
  • DO NOT apply water on ceramic fire pits
  • Keep fire pits 15 to 20 feet from buildings 
  • Must be placed on a noncombustible surface
  • Should not be used for an extended amount of time
  • Always watch for floating embers, they can create forest fires 
  • Have a water hose or water bucket or an approved fire extinguisher (10# ABC)
  • Ensure all embers are extinguished and cold to the touch after each use and prior to disposal
  • Never dispose ashes in a combustible container
  • Screen mesh tops are required
In the event that a fire does occur it must be reported regardless of severity. Call 9-1-1 to report your address, name, and phone number; please direct firefighters to the fire location upon their arrival. Additionally, if you are calling from a cellular phone please inform the Fairbanks dispatcher that you are located on Eielson AFB as they will re-route your call to Eielson's central emergency dispatch center.