News Summary
As summer begins, Beaufort County residents are reminded to follow essential fire safety protocols for bonfires and grilling. With thousands of grill-related incidents reported annually, local regulations vary by city. Bluffton allows controlled bonfires, while Hilton Head prohibits fires on the beach. General fire safety tips include keeping equipment nearby and never leaving a fire unattended. Residents are advised to check local HOA or POA guidelines and contact authorities for illegal burning. Familiarizing with these precautions can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for all.
Beaufort County Fire Safety Guidelines for Summer Bonfires and Grilling
As summer approaches, residents in Beaufort County are reminded of safety protocols for bonfires and grilling. These popular activities, while enjoyable, can pose serious safety risks if not conducted properly.
Incidents and Safety Concerns
- The National Fire Protection Association reports over 10,000 home fires annually due to gas and charcoal grills in the U.S.
- Peak months for grill and bonfire-related incidents are between May and August.
City-Specific Regulations
Bluffton
- Bonfires must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 3 feet in height.
- Fires must be contained within a noncombustible enclosure.
- Bonfires cannot be within 100 feet of structures or combustible materials and must end by midnight.
- Maximum height: 6 feet; maximum diameter: 12 feet.
- Bonfires allowed for a maximum of 3 hours.
Hilton Head
- No fires are permitted on the beaches.
- Fires must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
- Maintain a distance of 25 feet from structures or combustible materials.
- Fires on the beach must be extinguished by 10 p.m. from May 1 to October 31.
Beaufort
- Burn piles must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.
- Multiple burn piles are not allowed.
General Fire Safety Tips
- Keep a hose, shovel, or fire extinguisher nearby.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Position fire pits 10-20 feet away from structures and flammable materials.
- Use only approved fuels like dry firewood; avoid burning trash.
- Ensure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving.
- Store fire pit tools and fuels out of reach of children.
- Regularly clean and inspect fire pits.
- Contact the South Carolina Forestry Commission for large bonfires outside contained structures to ensure safety.
Grilling Safety Guidelines
- Place grills on flat, non-flammable surfaces, and keep away from overhanging branches.
- Do not grill indoors, including garages.
- Check gas lines for leaks and maintain grill cleanliness to prevent flare-ups.
- Stay near the grill while in use, and wait for coals to cool completely before disposal.
- If you smell gas, turn off the grill and check for leaks.
Additional Information
- Residents do not need to inform the SC Forestry Commission for food preparation fires in approved enclosures.
- Check local HOA or POA guidelines before setting up a fire pit or grill to avoid fines.
- Some rental properties may prohibit charcoal or gas grills.
- Report illegal burning or safety concerns to the SC Forestry Commission hotline at 1-800-895-7062.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Fire Incidents Result in Fatalities and Property Damage
Beaufort County Boating Safety Guidelines and New Regulations Announced
Immigrant Resilience: A Personal Journey from Peru to Augusta
Major Fire Erupts at Lithium Battery Storage Facility
Bluffton and Jasper County Water Main Upgrades Announced
Beaufort County Firefighters Tackle Two Intense Blazes
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Local News
- Wikipedia: Fire Safety
- WTOC: Windy Conditions Prompt Brush Fires
- Google Search: Fire Safety Guidelines
- Firehouse: Firefighter Dies Responding to Water Rescue
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fire
- WCTI: Beaufort’s New Fire Marshal
