Community Fire Safety Notice- Fire Safety Tips for Barbequing

FACT: Roughly half of injuries involving bbqs involve thermal burns-

There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. But, a bbq placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe barbequing this summer:

• Gas and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The bbq should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your bbq grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

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.
When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Gas Barbeques
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 gas leak will release bubbles. If your bbq has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill .It is then advisable to get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.