Grill Safety suggestions

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

More than 10,000 home fires are started by grills each year on average. July is a peak month for grill fires followed by June, May, and August. 

Barbecuing is a summertime staple we all love! Follow these tips to prevent yourself from being a statistic:

• Any type of grill should only be used outdoors. 
• Place the grill far away from the home or anything that could cover it and cause a fire.
• Keep children and pets away from the grilling area, and never leave your grill unattended. 
• Clean your grill by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and trays below the grill before every use.
• Keep your gas grill lid open before lighting it. 

Charcoal Grills-

• Only use charcoal starter fluid. Do not add charcoal fluid or other flammable liquids to light the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid away from heat sources and children. 
• Use an extension cord for electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. 
• Let the coals completely cool before disposing of in a metal container. 

The National Fire Protection Association posted on their website, https://www.nfpa.org/education, some tips for gas grills. The suggestions are as follows: 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 have the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. In case 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.