-Advertisement-
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — With temperatures expected to drop for Saturday’s Michigan–Ohio State game, the Ann Arbor Fire Department is reminding fans to follow fire safety rules during tailgating events.
Officials said cold weather and increased tailgate setups typically bring more fire safety issues, especially with tents, heaters, and generators placed too close together. Inspectors will be monitoring tailgate areas throughout the weekend, focusing on safety education rather than enforcement.
The department outlined several key safety reminders:
- Tents larger than 120 square feet require a city permit.
- No open flames are allowed inside or within 20 feet of any tent.
- Gas or charcoal grills must remain at least 20 feet from tents.
- Propane heaters cannot be used inside tents, canopies, or enclosed structures.
- Generators must be at least 20 feet away from tents.
- Gasoline must be stored a minimum of 50 feet from tents, in approved containers.
Photos shared by the department show common violations, including heaters and generators placed directly against tent walls — a major fire hazard.
Fans are encouraged to double-check equipment spacing before kickoff and report unsafe setups to nearby fire inspectors.
More information and tailgate permit details can be found at a2gov.org/fire.
