Fire Safety Tips For Your Summer Grilling

With summer here, it is prime grilling time. Most of the time, cookouts go off without a hitch, but accidents can happen. June and July are peak months for grilling fires. Every year grilling related accidents cause a reported $75 million in property damage and send an estimated 20,000 people to the emergency room. Gas grills constitute a higher risk and have been involved in an annual average of 7,200 home fires (from 2007 – 2011).

Refreshing your memory of basic grill safety may save you from a costly or dangerous accident this summer. Here are some reminders and safety tips for a safe grilling season.

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• When using a charcoal grill, dispose of hot charcoal bricks and ashes properly to avoid trash can fires that could spread to the surrounding area. Douse hot coals with plenty of water to ensure the fire is out.

Grilling accidents can happen to anyone so remember to play it safe this summer!

The above tips were found on the NFA website. For more information on fire safety visit NFPA.org.