Summer Grilling and Chilling Fire Safety Tips from Security Specialists – a KIDDE Strategic Partner

With the festivities of the Fourth now over, the summer grilling and chilling season is in full swing. However, as more folks turn to their outdoor grills, the risk of grill-caused fires dramatically rises. In fact, outdoor grilling causes an average of 8,900 home fires annually, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Regardless of the type of grill you own, here are seven grill fire prevention safety tips from Security Specialists, a Kidde strategic partner, that will keep you and your home safe this barbecuing season:

1. An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure – Be Prepared to Put Out the Fire. Before you start grilling, make sure you have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire (never use water to put out grease fire!) It’s also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby to put out other fires. Grill outside and away from any structures
2. Location…Location…Location – Keep Your Grill Away from Your Home and Never Use It Inside Your House. Charcoal and gas grills are designed for well-ventilated outdoor use only. Both gas and charcoal models emit poisonous carbon monoxide fumes, which can be deadly in enclosed areas.
3. Keep Your Distance – Pay attention to overhanging tree branches when you set up your grill. Always ensure your barbecue has a clearance of at least 15 feet from overhanging tree branches, buildings, vehicles, and open doors.
4. Maintain Your Grill – Before you start cooking, check all fittings, tubes, and connections to ensure they’re in good condition, are connected tightly, and that there are no leaks. Ensure that the tubes that feed the burners are free of any blockages from food grease, insects, and other debris. Use a pipe cleaner or small awl to clear any blockages.
5. Use Caution When Igniting Your Grill – Never start your grill with the lid closed. Always leave the lid open when igniting the grill. Closing the lid can cause a quick buildup of gas, which can cause an explosion. If your gas barbecue doesn’t light immediately or goes out, turn off the valve and burners, and leave the lid open for five minutes before trying again. Gas is heavier than air and needs time to clear from the bottom of the cook box. If you’re cooking with charcoal, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never use gasoline or lighter fluid on coals.
6. Always Be Aware of Your Grill – Always set your grill on a flat surface and make sure the grill can’t be tipped over. Never leave a lit grill unattended and don’t allow kids or pets to play near the grill.
7. Make Sure the Fire is Out Completely When Done Cooking – Always double-check to ensure that charcoal, wood chips, and wood lumps are thoroughly extinguished before disposing – charcoal embers can still be hot, even though they look like ash.

We at Security Specialists Want You and Your Family to Stay Safe and Secure In Your Home!