Summer Grilling Safety

4/13/2017 (Permalink)

Structure fire caused by grilling to close to the structure.

Spring is here and summer is right around the corner. A time for family and friends to get together and BBQ but even for a seasoned griller it can be dangerous.

The NFPA explains, “Gas grills constitute a higher risk, having been involved in an annual average 83% of home fires in 2009-2013, while charcoal or other solid-fueled grills were involved in an annual average 13% of home fires.”

• These 8,900 fires caused an annual average of 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries and $118 million in direct property damage. Almost all the losses resulted from structure fires.
• The leading causes of grill fires were a failure to clean, having the grill too close

Knowing general summer grilling safety tips will help ensure you and your family understand the precautions to take.

10 safety grilling tips put together by SERVPRO of North Richland Hills:

1. Whether you are an experienced griller or a beginner always read the owner’s manual. This will ensure a proper installation and usage.
2. Grilling should always be for outside use only. Open flames and smoke need to be properly ventilated and should always be placed outside.
3. Place grills away from homes and structures.  Wind can blow sparks that can quickly ignite structures causing damage.
4. Make sure to place your grill on a stable surface.  Each leg of the grill should be on equal plane to ensure coals and flames stay within the grill.
5. Use proper grilling accessories. Long handled utensils will make sure that your hands and arms are properly protected from open flames reducing the chances of being burned.
6. When grilling try to tie back loose shirts or aprons so that they don’t get caught in the wind or catch sparks from the flame. If possible buy flame retardant mitts and aprons to ensure safety.
7. It is very important to know how to control a fire. If a flare up does occur remove food if possible or use a fire extinguisher or a garden hose. Sand will help if you don’t have access to an extinguisher or garden hose.
8. Always pay attention and be aware of your grill. Setting timers for each type of food and never leaving the grill unattended can prevent old grease and oil from flaring up if left unnoticed.
9. Purchase a splash mat to place under your grill. This will prevent sparks or hot oil from falling onto areas such as your deck. Hot grease can easily start fires if not properly handled.
10. Explain to young children grilling safety. Allowing them to play or sit around a hot grill can cause danger to them.

Following these easy grilling safety tips can help prevent fires and ensure your spring and summer grilling is safe and fun.

If a structure fire does occur SERVPRO of North Richland Hills is ready to help 365 day a year, 24 hours a day. For more information call 817-589-1499 or go to our website at www.SERVPROnorthrichlandhills.com