Fire safety tips for Spencer Township families
Welcome to the Spencer Township Fire Department's guide to keeping your family safe from fire. Here you'll find essential tips for campfires and what to do if clothing catches fire, all designed to protect our community in Gowen, Michigan.
Kids Section: Get Involved and Practice!
STOP! DROP! and ROLL!
Let's Practice! October is fire prevention month!
Safety Tips Around a Campfire for Kids
Campfires are a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but safety is very important, especially for kids. Here are some easy-to-follow safety tips to keep everyone safe while having fun around the campfire:
- Always have adult supervision: Kids should never be near a campfire without an adult present. Adults can help keep everyone safe and teach kids about fire safety.
- Stay a safe distance: Make sure kids know to stay at least three feet away from the fire. This distance helps prevent burns and accidents.
- No running or playing near the fire: Encourage kids to play away from the campfire area. Running can lead to falls and accidents near the flames.
- Use firewood, not other materials: Teach kids that only firewood should be used in the campfire. Never throw in plastic, leaves, or other materials that can cause dangerous flames or toxic smoke.
- Don’t poke the fire: Remind kids not to poke or throw things into the fire. This can cause sparks and increase the risk of burns.
- Know what to do if someone gets burned: Teach kids how to react if they or someone else gets burned. Cool the burn with water and tell an adult immediately.
- Put out the fire properly: When it’s time to go to bed or leave the campsite, make sure the fire is completely out. Pour water on the fire and stir the ashes until everything is cool to the touch.
By following these simple safety tips, kids can enjoy the warmth and fun of a campfire while staying safe. Remember, safety first means more fun for everyone!
For Adults: Additional Safety

Safe campfires for everyone
Enjoying a campfire is a wonderful way to spend time outdoors, but safety always comes first. Always make sure your campfire is in a designated pit, away from tents, trees, and dry grass. Keep your fire small and manageable, and never leave it unattended. Most importantly, always have a water source nearby, like a bucket of water or a hose, ready to extinguish the fire completely when you are done.

Check local burn information
Before any outdoor burning, whether it's a campfire or yard waste, it's crucial for Spencer Township residents to check the current burn caution level. You can do this by visiting our website or checking the fire department sign. Burn bans are put in place for your safety and the safety of our community to prevent wildfires during dry conditions. Always ensure burning is allowed before you light any fire.