JACKSON, Wyo. — As the valley begins to show signs of spring, albeit a little early and never guaranteed to stick this soon, whispers of yard work and spring cleaning are starting to get louder.
With longer days and warmer temps, it’s only natural to want to get started on gardening to-do lists or patio projects. Follow these six tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to tackle spring cleaning safely and minimize the risk of fires and associated hazards.
Debris cleanup and disposal
With wildfires becoming more prevalent across the West, and with the increasing risk of urban wildfires, it is important to clear dead vegetation and other flammable material from within five feet of the house. NFPA recommends cleaning leaves and pine needles from roofs, gutters and deck areas. Dispose of branches, weeds, leaves, pine needles and grass clippings in order to reduce fire fuel. Any construction material, garbage and woodpiles should be at least 30 feet away from the home or other buildings. Lawn waste can be brought to the Trash Transfer Station year-round.
Grill inspection
Before firing up the barbecue grill, check it carefully for nests, spider webs or other debris. Make sure it is free of grease and fat buildup. When using a propane grill, NFPA says to check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it at the beginning of the season.
Gasoline use and storage
According to NFPA, gasoline should only be used as motor fuel, never as a cleaner or to break down grease. Gasoline should always be stored in a container sold for that purpose with the cap screwed on tightly when not in use. NFPA recommends keeping gasoline containers stored in a detached garage or outdoor shed. Gasoline should never be brought indoors or stored in a basement.
Dirty rag disposal
Oils commonly found in oil-based paints and stains release heat as they dry, which can build up and cause a fire if left in a pile. Dirty rags used for painting and staining should be hung outdoors to dry after use or spread on the ground with a weight on top to prevent them from blowing away. After the rags have dried, NFPA recommends placing them in a metal container with water and detergent and tightly covering the container. Keep the container in a cool place away from direct sunlight or other heat sources. Teton County Integrated Solid Waste and Recycling will accept used, dried rags at its Hazardous Waste Facility. Rags should be transported in a bucket. Book a drop-off appointment for hazardous waste by calling (307) 733-7678 or by booking online here.
Use and storage of flammable and combustible liquids
Flammable and combustible liquids should be used with care and never near an open flame. Do not smoke while working with these kinds of liquids. If a liquid spills on clothing, leave the clothing outside to dry and launder it after. NFPA states that flammable liquids should be kept in their original containers with the cap sealed tightly. Never store in glass containers.
Clothes dryer cleaning
Spring is typically the time of year when snow melts, so it’s a good time to check that the clothes dryer’s outdoor vent flap is not covered and that it opens when the dryer is running. Also check to make sure the air exhaust vent pipe for the dryer is not restricted. Move things that can burn away from the dryer: boxes, cleaning supplies, clothing, etc. Clothes that have come in contact with flammable substances should be laid or hung outside to dry before being washed and dried as usual.
