Barbecue safety

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. James Fountain
  • 17th Training Wing Safety
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Be sure to use safe grilling practices as the peak months for grilling fires approach. Gas grills constitute a higher risk, having been involved in an annual average of 6,900 home fires in 2005-2009, while charcoal or other solid-fueled grills were involved in an annual average of 1,100 home fires.

On April 11, in Lehigh Acres, Fla, a barbecue turned dangerous after one spark scorched more than an acre of an empty lot in a matter of minutes. The owner of the home says her daughter was grilling when a piece of paper used to light the grill blew away igniting the blaze.

Here are some general safety tips:
· Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
· The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
· Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
· Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
· Never leave your grill unattended.

Charcoal grills
· There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
· If you use 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 you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Propane grills
Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
　
For more information visit http://www.nbc-2.com/story/17399856/brush-fire-reported-in-lehigh-acres and http://www.nfpa.org/itemDetail.asp?categoryID=1714&itemID=41221&URL=Safety%20Information/For%20consumers/Outdoors/Grilling/Grilling%20safety%20tips.