Grilling Safety

5/4/2018 (Permalink)

Grilling Safety

Spring is finally here! It’s time to get outside and dig out those grills that have been collecting dust in your garage. Barbeques are fun but it is important to keep your home, family, and guests safe. Every year, about 5,700 grill fires take place due to malfunctioning gas grills, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. These grill fires equal up to an annual average of $37 million in damage, along with 100 injuries and 10 deaths. Don’t let one little mistake ruin your barbeque fun! Follow these tips provided by the National Fire Protection Association to make sure you are safe when grilling.

General grilling tips

• Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.

• Grills should be located well away from the home (at least 10 feet), deck railings, and out from carports and overhanging branches.

• Keep children and pets away from the grilling area.

• Keep your grill clean by getting rid of any grease of fat buildup in the trays below the grill.

• Never leave your grill unattended.

Before using your grill

• Check the major connection points between the gas tank hose and the regulator and cylinder, along with where the hose connects to the burners. If any are loose, tighten them.
• Check the propane tank hose for any potential gas leaks. To do that:
  • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
  • Turn on the propane tank. If there is a gas leak, the propane will start to release bubbles around the hose.
  • If you don’t see any bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
• If there are bubbles being released around the hose, turn off the tank and check the connections. You then should have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the leak doesn’t seem to be stopping, call the fire department immediately!

When your grill is on

• If you are cooking and start to smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners.
• If the leak immediately stops, make sure to get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the smell doesn’t seem to be going away, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do not move the grill.