Barbecues And Fire Safety

​Home Barbecues & Home Fire Risk

• July is the highest month for grill related fires 
  
• Over 50% grill fires happen on a terrace, patio, or balcony 
• 50% of injuries from grills are burns

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General Safety Tips

• Use propane & charcoal BBQ grills outdoors only
  
• Keep grill away from the house, deck railings & out from under eaves & overhanging branches & trees
• Keep children & pets at least three feet away from the grill area. Especially during pool parties where there are many children, maintain caution.
  
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup on the grill & tray below the grill
• If clothing catches fire, remember Stop, Drop, & Roll!
• Never leave your grill unattended 
• Visit "Food Safety" 

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Charcoal Grills

• Location:
  

              * Keep grill at least 8-feet away from walls,
                 structures, buildings
              * Do not use on wooden decks, wooden furniture,
                 or combustible surfaces

• If you use starter fluid, only use fluid for charcoal only. Never add charcoal fluid or other flammable liquid to a lit fire
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and aware form heat sources
• Since charcoal produces Carbon Monoxide fumes until the charcoal is completely extinguished, do not store the grill indoors with freshly used coals
• When done grilling, let coals cool completely before discarding in metal container only  (never dump hot coals onto sand or dirt where someone could get burned while stepping on)

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Propane and Gas Grills

• Check gas tank hose for leaks before using for the first time each year
  
• Apply light soap & water solution to the hose. Bubbles will appear if leaking
  
• If there is a leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test (when there is no flame), turn off the gas tank
• If the leak stops, get the grill services 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
               * Call fire department
               *  Do not move grill

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