Gas grills
Every year, the weather gets warmer, and most people are forced to use outdoor grills. On this, so many fire incidents are reported. According to research by the National Fire Protection Association, over 10,200 fires have been caused between 2013-2017.
Gas grills are known for causing more home fires than charcoal grills. Also, 64% of the households own a gas grill while 44% own a charcoal grill. Also 9% of these people own an electric grill.
Regardless of the grill that you own, we have shared with you some of the most useful safety tips that can keep your home safe during the barbequing season.
- Grill Your Barbeque Away from Structures
The gas and charcoal grills are for the outdoor usage only. More than 27% of the home fires caused by outdoor grills started in a courtyard, patio or a terrace. Also 29% of these fires began in an open porch or an exterior balcony. You will therefore need to pay attention to overhanging tree branches.
- Making sure the frill us stable
Only set the grill on flat surface and then make sure it can’t be leant on. Make sure to consider using a splatter mat or a grill pad under the grill in order to help protect the patio or the deck.
- Keeping the Grill Clean
You should always make sure to remove the fat or grease buildup from both the tray and the grill. For those who use the charcoal grill, always allow the coals to completely cool off before disposing them.
- Checking the Propane Leakage on the gas grill
Before the first barbeque, it is good to check the gas tank hose for any form of leakage. You can use water solution and light soap to the hose and then turn on the gas. If you find bubbles in the propane, then it is enough to rule out that there will be a leakage. Other signs of a leakage are a gas smell near the barbeque. The flame may also fail to light when there is a leakage.
- If the Flame Goes Out , Wait Before You Relight
If you use a gas grill and immediately you find out that the flame has gone out, then make sure to turn the gas and the grill off. You can then wait for at least five minutes before re-lighting it.
- Taking Care around the grill
When you light the grill, make sure not to leave it unattended. Do not allow pets or kids to play near the grill. Never trying moving a lit or a hot grill because even if it has been shut off, you will notice that it will stay hot for at least one hour.
- Always Be Careful With the Charcoal Starter Fluid
For those who use a charcoal grill, it is advisable to use a charcoal starter fluid. If you find the fire going out, then do not add any starter fluid to the fire. There is a charcoal chimney starter which uses a newspaper to start the fire instead of the common starter fluid.
- Make sure to wear the right Clothing
Bad clothing can easily catch fire and so be sure that the shirt tails, apron and sleeves do not dangle on top of the grill.
- Prepare to Put Out the fire
The baking soda is the best item to put out the fire. In case of other fires, make sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby. If you do not have a fire extinguisher, have a bucket of sand next to your grill. Do not use water to put out the grease fire.
If you follow these simple tips, then you will definitely have a safe summer season with you family together.