Prevent Late-Summer Outdoor Equipment Fires & Burn Hazards

Prevent Late-Summer Outdoor Equipment Fires & Burn Hazards

​As late-summer maintenance ramps up across our district, the New Holland Fire Department wants to remind residents that outdoor power tools, hot equipment, and dry vegetation can be a dangerous combination.

​Whether you’re mowing the lawn, clearing weeds, or tackling yard projects, taking a few simple precautions can prevent costly equipment fires and accidental grass burns.

​1. Watch for Hot Equipment in Dry Grass

​Vehicle exhaust pipes and mower decks reach extreme temperatures during use.

  • ​Never Park in High Grass: Parking a warm car, truck, or lawn tractor over dry grass or thick weeds can easily ignite a fire underneath the vehicle.

  • ​Refuel Carefully: Never add fuel to a mower or power tool while the engine is running or still hot. Let equipment cool down for a few minutes before topping off the gas tank.

​2. Prevent Spark Hazards While Mowing

​A single spark hit against a hidden rock or piece of metal in dry grass can ignite dry debris quickly, especially on windy afternoons.

  • ​Mow in Cooler Hours: Mow early in the morning when humidity is higher and temperatures are cooler. Avoid mowing during peak heat or on exceptionally windy days.

  • ​Clear the Yard First: Walk your yard beforehand to pick up stones, metal debris, or toys that could strike the mower blade and create a spark.

  • ​Clean the Deck: Periodically clear built-up grass clippings and dry leaves from around the mower engine and deck, as packed dry material near hot engine parts is a common cause of mower fires.

​3. Maintain Your Small Engines

​All gasoline-powered lawn equipment—including trimmers, chainsaws, and mowers—should have a clean, functional spark arrester on the exhaust system to prevent hot carbon particles from escaping into dry brush.

​Free Smoke Detector Program Reminder:

Summer is moving fast, making it a great time to check the manufacture date on your home's smoke alarms. Smoke detectors lose reliability after 10 years and need complete replacement.

​If your alarms are outdated, our department will provide and install new 10-year sealed lithium battery smoke detectors at no cost to residents in our district through the "Be Alarmed!" program.

​Call us to schedule your free installation: (217) 445-2

341

​Stay safe out there, New Holland! Always keep a garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby during outdoor yard projects. In the event of an emergency, call 911 immediately.

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