Fire Safety Tips During Grilling Season

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Ahhhh summer...a time when friends and family get together to enjoy the beautiful weather to eat and especially during the hot summer months…cook outdoors! And, who doesn’t love a good BBQ?  70% of US households own a grill and odds are will fire it up at least once a week during the summer.  Be that as it may, it is also when fire can become an issue for your home and property.  According to the U.S. Fire Administration, roughly 5,700 grill fires take place on residential property every year amounting to an annual average of $37 million in damages.

As you fire up your grill or smoker of choice, here are some basic tips:

• When grilling, it is important to do so in a safe environment. Have a space outdoors where you can set up a grill safely and on level ground with a three-foot space between any structures nearby that could catch fire.
  • If you live in a condominium or an apartment, check with your landlord/property manager to find out if grilling on your balcony area is acceptable before you do it!
• When lighting/igniting your grill, always open the lid prior to turning on the propane. Backdrafts can occur if you leave the lid closed while lighting.
• Be sure to wear short sleeve clothing when grilling to stay safe from the grill flames.
• NEVER leave the grill unattended!
• Be sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby to put out any fires that may occur.
• Clean your grill after each use to prevent grease fires.
• Dispose of used coals in a metal can with lid after they have cooled.

We at SERVPRO of North Prince William County hope you stay safe and enjoy cooking outdoors safely!