Grilling Safety

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Stay Safe This Memorial Day Weekend With These Helpful Tips

Memorial Day is right around the corner, which means cookout season is upon us. As exciting as it is to break out the grill for the official start of the summer season, we have to always consider the safety that needs to be taken when preparing to light up the grill. Remember to keep grills 10 feet away from siding and out from under eaves or roofs.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2013-2017, fire departments went to an annual average of 10,200 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year, including 4,500 structure fires and 5,700 outside or unclassified fires. These fires caused an annual average of 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries and $123 million in direct property damage.

A barbecue is a great way to bring the family together. Keep the ones you love safe with the following grilling tips from the NFPA:

SAFETY TIPS

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

CHARCOAL GRILLS

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.  
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

PROPANE GRILLS

• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
• Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
• If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting it.

If fire damage has impacted your home or business this cookout season, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.