Firing Up The Grill: Safety Tips

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

When the weather gets warmer, more and more people are looking to be outdoors. Whether you are looking for a reason to be outside or the cravings are just right, grilling can be one of life’s simple pleasures. Unfortunately, sometimes simple activities that bring us joy can lead to potential safety issues.

For example, did you know that leaving the grill unattended, not cleaning the buildup on the grates and trays properly, or placing the grill too close to your home or any structures can cause injuries, fires, and property damage?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 10,600 home fires are started by grills each year on average.  About 19,700 patients went to the ER per year because of injuries involving grills, including 9,500 thermal burns.

Regardless of the type of grill you own, here are some safety tips that will keep you and your family safe while barbequing at home:

Grill OUTSIDE and away from any structures. Never leave a lit grill unattended. Be cautious of the clothes you are wearing, scarves, aprons, anything dangling can easily catch on fire. Keep an eye on any children or animals when near the grill. Grills should never be used on a balcony or under an overhang. Also, look out for overhanging branches. Never use a grill in a garage, vehicle, or other enclosed spaces. Even if these are ventilated, you can still be at risk of harmful carbon monoxide buildup.

• Gas grills were involved in an average of 8,900 home fires per year, including 3,900 structure fires and 4,900 outdoor fires annually. Charcoal or other solid-fueled grills were involved in 1,300 home fires per year, including 600 structure fires and 600 outside fires annually. (NFPA)

Keep your grill clean and stable. Always set up your grill on a flat surface and make sure that it cannot be tipped over. Be sure to clean and remove grease or fat buildup both from the grill and the tray below the grill. If you using a charcoal grill, be sure to allow the coals to completely cool before disposing of them in a metal container.

Check for propane leaks on your gas grill. Before your first grill of the season, be sure to check the gas tank hose for leaks. You can apply light soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there is a leak, you will see the solution bubble. Also, be aware of the smell of gas near the grill or a flame that will not light, these can also be signs of a propane leak.

•  Leaks or breaks were primarily a problem with gas grills. Ten percent of gas grill structure fires and 22% of outside gas grill fires were caused by leaks or breaks. (NFPA)

Be ready to put out a fire. Never use water to put out a grease fire. Have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire and always have a fire extinguisher nearby. If you do not have a fire extinguisher, keep a bucket of sand next to the grill.

We hope these tips will help you and your family have a safe grilling season and summer.

If you experience fire damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Chesapeake North at 757-465-9700.