Summer backyard grilling sounds like all fun and games
until ... it isn't!
BBQs and cookouts have become a huge part of our culture, especially during the summer holidays. But grill fires are still a huge risk.
Michael Pritchard was clinging onto the back of a fire engine as it raced through the streets of El Paso, Texas.
"You could see the smoke from miles away," says Pritchard. Pritchard has served in the fire department for 26 years and has responded during his time to dozens of grill fires.
There was a particular fire that he vividly remembers because it was so severe and he believed it was entirely preventable. The cause of the fire? When 2 people made one simple mistake.
Charcoal grills cause an average of 1,300 home fires across the country every year, according to data from the National Fire Protection Association.
Two women were grilling their dinner outside. After eating, they went to bed and left the charcoal to cool overnight. Unfortunately, charcoal and ashes can stay hot for longer than they appear. When the women had disposed of the charcoal into their kitchen trash, ashes smoldered for a few hours before the trash can lit on fire.
Charcoal grill fires can cause an average of 1,300 home fires across the country every year. Gas grills are responsible for almost seven times as many blazes, with an average of 8,900 homes caused by them annually.
Home fires happen
each and every day and most of them are preventable. It is important to practice safe grilling habits.
GRILLING TIPS
When taking out the grill for the first time, it is essential to check for any hives or animals inside before cleaning off any excess grease.
Set your grill on a flat or a sturdy surface from at least 3 ft away from any structure.
Do not grill underneath a deck, an awning, or tree branches
Be mindful of dry vegetation, table clothes, or grilling too near any outside decor
Always check for any gas leaks if you are using a propane grill
It's critical that you keep the lid open! A close lid can cause gas to accumulate which could potentially lead to an explosion when you light the grill for the first time!
After you are done grilling, it is highly recommended by the National Fire Protection Association that you restore all propane tanks in an upright position at least 10 ft from the door, windows, or dryer vents.
Do NOT store propane in a garage.
BURN THIS image in your mind
The National Fire Protection Association recommends taping bright-colored duct tape on the ground near a grill to mark off a boundary easily visible to children.
or drunken guests? 👀
Alright kids, stay safe and smart out there and enjoy ya’ selves.
Here are some nice classic albums to kick off your next gathering.
