Safety Tips for Grilling Out

Posted Thursday, June 8, 2006

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Alpharetta, GA…: It’s that time of year again, the weather is warm, and the grilling season has started. Here are some safety tips for grilling this summer. Be aware of your grilling practices by being safe. Here are some important Safety Tips:

• Do not leave a grill unattended.

• Grills that are unattended can flare up; extinguish the fire in the grill carefully with a fire extinguisher.

• If the tank is on fire, evacuate the area and call 911.

• Gas grills: check hoses for integrity; apply a soapy solution to the hose to check for leaks and check connections.

• Keep matches, lighters, lighter fluid and charcoal out of the reach of children.

• Keep children away from hot grills; establish a 36 inch clearance around the grill. Also try to keep pets away from grills.

• Place grills a safe distance away from the side of a house; a distance of 10 feet is recommended.

• Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited, and never use any flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to get the fire going.

• Try to keep grills clean; periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.

• First Aid for minor burns is to soak in cold water and keep the burn site clean.NFPA statistics:

• The popularity of gas-fueled grills nearly tripled between 1982 and 1993 (up 193% from 9.4 million to 27.5 million).

• Gas grills have a higher fire risk than charcoal grills; leaks and breaks are the leading cause, accounting for nearly half of gas grill fires.

• Gas-fueled grills caused an estimated 600 home structure fires and 3,200 home outdoor fires in 2001.

• Charcoal-fueled or other solid-fueled grills caused an estimated 400 home structure fires and 200 home outdoor fires in 2001.

The City of Alpharetta Fire Prevention Office enforces the regulations set forth by National Fire Protection Association 1-10.11.3, which states no grills used or kindled on any balcony or under any overhanging portion or within 10 feet of any structure. Listed electric ranges, grills, or similar electrical apparatus shall be permitted. It is recommended that every household have a fire extinguisher. Know where the fire extinguisher is located and check to see if it is in usable condition.

• The hose is intact, and straight, no kinks or wear marks or cracked.

• The gauge reads full or in the green zone.

• There is no damage to the container of the extinguisher.

Any questions about fire safety can be directed to the City of Alpharetta Fire Prevention Office at (678) 297-6272.

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