#WESTPORT, CT – With the return of warm weather and the official start of summer right around the corner, people are firing up their grills and cooking delicious meals. Whether it is burgers and dogs on a propane grill or kabobs and s’mores over an open flame, the WESTPORT FIRE DEPT cannot stress the importance proper use and safety precautions enough.
“This time of year, there’s nothing better than a backyard barbeque with family and friends,” says Chief’s Aid Neil Perrotti. “However, grilling poses an increased risk of home fires and personal injury. July is the peak month for grill fires. But, by following some simple safety guidelines, people can stay safe and make the kind of summer memories you want to last a lifetime.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), two out of three households own a gas grill, and grilling causes an average of 8,900 home fires every year. The NFPA says failure to clean the grill is the leading factor in all grill structure fires, followed closely by the grill being placed too closely to something that could catch fire. And, gas grills are responsible for more fires than charcoal grills.
The NFPA offers the following general grilling guidelines:
Only use propane and charcoal grills outdoors.
Place grills well away from homes, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
Keep grills clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
Never leave grills unattended.
Before using propane grills, look for the following:
Check the major connection points between the gas (propane) tank hose and the regulator and
cylinder, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.
Check the gas (propane) tank hose for the potential (gas) leaks. To do that:
Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle. Turn the propane tank on. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see). o If there are no bubbles, the grill is safe to use.
If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately. When propane grills are on, remember:
If you smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners. If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do
not move the grill.
For charcoal grills, remember:
If using a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
When done grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
(Westport Fire Department Press Release)
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