Americans enjoy more than three billion barbecues each year. But barbecuing can be dangerous, even deadly, if you are not careful. According to the NFPA, gas and charcoal grills caused an average of 900 structure fires and 3,500 outdoor fires in or on home properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $30 million in the United States in 2006.
Chief Edward Casares, Jr. and the City of Hartford Fire Department want you to enjoy a safe and fun-filled grilling season by following some simple safety guidelines:
- Always grill away from structures. Never attempt to grill on balconies or in close proximity to a house, garage, landscaping, and most of all, children.
- When ready to barbecue, protect yourself by wearing a heavy apron and an oven mitt that fits high up over your forearm.
- With gas grills, make sure the gas cylinder is always stored outside and away from your house. Make sure the valves are turned off when you are not using them. Check regularly for leaks in the connections using a soap and water mix that will show bubbles where gas escapes.
- For charcoal grills, only use starter fluids designed for those grills. Never use gasoline and use a limited amount of starter fluid. If the fire is too slow, rekindle with dry kindling and add more charcoal if necessary. Never add more liquid fuel or you could end up with a flash fire that ignites clothing and causes severe burns.
- Be sure to soak any coals with water before you put them in an approved trash receptacle.
- Always remember that grills remain hot long after you are through barbecuing.
