Barbecue Grill Safety Information From NFPA

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The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reminds outdoor cooks not to forget about grill safety as the peak months for grill fires arrives. In 2003-2006, gas-fueled grilled were involved in 81% of reported home grill fires. The leading cause of gas grill fires was a leak or break in hoses.

Charcoal or other solid-fueled grills were involved in 16% of home grill fires. The leading cause of these fires wwas something that could burn being located too close to the grill.

NFPA offers these grill safety tips:

• Use propane and charcoal grills in outdoor areas only;
• Make sure the grill is located well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches;
• Use long-handled grilling tools to give plenty of clearance from heat and flames;
• Remove grease or fat build up from the grills and in the trays below the grill so it cannot ignite;
• Never leave the grill unattended;
• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose. If there is a propane leak, it will release bubbles.
• If you smell gas at any point while cooking, get away from the grill immediately and call the fire department;
• Use only equipment with the lable of a recognized testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it;
• Never store propane gas tanks in buildings or garages.
• If you use starter fluid, only use charcoal starter fluid and never add charcoal fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited;
• Never use gasoline or any other flammable liquid to get the fire going.