Summer season is known for heat, sun — and fires. We may think of Michigan summer months as beautifully long days that turn into bonfire nights, but are you keeping yourself safe while having fun? Michigan firefighters respond to over 10,000 wildfires a year. Here's our easy checklist of safety tips to keep your summer worry-free.

Clear Away Brush

Dead plant debris is the cause of wildfires almost 50% of the time. After spring has bloomed, this is a great time to clear away what didn't survive. Anything dry, brittle, or grey is most likely ready to be removed. The silver lining? Dry debris can make for great controlled firestarter at your next bonfire event.

Move Furniture

Outdoor furniture should be a minimum of 7 feet away from any open flame — a good rule for people as well. When tending to a fire, designate one specific person to do so rather than having many people milling close to the flame.

Create Barriers

When landscaping your yard, adding barriers of stone, gravel, or shells is both decorative and protective. Strategically placed liners that create breaks in your lawn can help prevent fire spread. Placing them around the edges of your house is a popular and smart choice.

Use Fireproof Mulch

Mulch comes in many varieties — organic or inorganic, from composted wood to pine to shredded rubber. Studies have found that composted wood chips have the lowest rate of flame spread. Surrounding your mulch with a stone or gravel barrier is a double layer of protection.

Trim Trees

Large overhanging tree branches can be dangerous for many reasons — and hopping flames (yes, that is a real phenomenon) is one of them. If branches or leaves are close enough to your roofline, a nearby fire could ignite them quickly. Give them a trim before fire season is in full swing.

Summertime should be full of fun, not worry. A quick weekend revamp and a little common sense will help you create the safest yard for the season. Keep checking back with Kratos Gas & Power for more excellent tips for homeowners.