By Katie Lamont, East Lake High

It's growing chilly in Florida, and that calls for one thing and one thing only: a bonfire. But before you run outside and burn yourself, take a second and follow our guide to the perfect (and safe) bonfire:

Step 1: Find the perfect location. Maybe it's a backyard, front yard, park or beach (make sure you call first and find out their rules, including prohibitions due to dry conditions), the perfect spot varies. Big group? Find a roomy location. Small group? Anything will do. *Important note: You can't just set up a big ol' fire pit anywhere. Make sure that wherever you do it, bonfires are allowed and there is no danger of setting trees, shrubbery or grass on fire.

Step 2: Be prepared. With our first bonfire this year, my friends and I didn't need to take bets on whether someone would get burned; sure enough, it happened. Unlike us, REALLY take precautions lighting and tending the fire. Also, try to avoid screaming fits and keep cool water, burn ointment, bandages and whatever you'd go running in the house for on hand.

Step 3: No s'more left behind. Beware, if you're with a group of teenagers, you will quickly notice how much food is eaten -- and how much food is played with. Make sure you're armed with all the marshmallows, chocolate and Graham crackers your group can handle. Oh, and try not to throw too many marshmallows at each other, the clean-up in the morning isn't so fun.

Step 4: If you play with fire, you'll get burned. Be safe because fire is ... do I really need to explain this one, folks? I think we all know that fire is dangerous. No stupid human tricks. Play it safe.

Step 5: Blankets galore. You need as many as you can get, because you never know how many people will begin to freeze in Florida's glorious chill. On top of that, blankets are perfect for protecting you from scratchy grass, or whatever turf you find yourself on.

Bonfires in Florida are definitely a seasonal treat, so enjoy. While you're sitting around the warmth and glow, you can even tell scary stories about those dog days of summer.