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Fire in the grill, under hot dogs and burgers, is a welcome sight at the family cookout. When fire gets out of hand while grilling, it could make your summer kick-off barbecue an unforgettable memory.
According to the National Fire Protection Association in 2005, gas and charcoal grills caused more than 3,400 structure fires and 4,900 outdoor fires in or on home properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $137 million.
Gas grills have a higher fire risk than charcoal grills. Leaks and gas line breaks are the leading cause, accounting for 41 percent of the gas grill structure and outdoor fires. More than 35 percent of all gas grill home structure fires began on an exterior balcony or unenclosed structure.
Here are some NFPA and our fire safety tips that are recommended to keep you fire safe while you are barbecuing and grilling:
u Propane and charcoal barbecue grills must only be used outdoors.
u Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
u Keep children and pets from the grill area: declare a three-foot “safe zone” around the grill.
u Be sure to remove grease or fat build-up in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.
u For Charcoal Grills: Purchase the proper starter fluid and store the can out of reach of children, and away from heat sources. Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited and never use any flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to get the fire going.
u For Propane Grills: Check the gas cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will quickly reveal escaping propane by releasing bubbles. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
Use only equipment with the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Follow the
manufacturers’ instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it. Never store propane gas cylinders in buildings or garages. If you store a gas grill inside during the winter, disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside.
(Courtesy of the 435th Fire Prevention Office)
