Chief Larry Fisher and the Merrimac Fire Department would like to share summer grilling and outdoor cooking safety tips.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), gas grills are the cause of an average of 9,079 home fires, 4,454 structure fires, and 4,625 outdoor fires annually.
As summer kicks off, the Merrimac Fire Department would like to share the following grilling and outdoor cooking safety tips from the NFPA with residents and community members.
While Cooking/General Tips
- Grills should only be used outdoors.
- Keep grills or outdoor cooking items away from the home.
- Grills should never be used or set up on closed porches or the second-story of a home or apartment building.
- Clean the grill before and after cooking to prevent grease build-up.
- Never leave a grill unattended while cooking and ensure it is off before returning to the home or leaving the property.
- Children and pets should be kept at least 3 feet away from the grilling area and grilling equipment, including propane tanks.
- Keep an extinguisher or water source nearby in case the fire from the grill gets out of control.
- Keep heat sources, and ignitions including lighters and matches, away from open fires and grills.
Propane Grills
- Check the tank hose for leaks before using it. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose to check for a leak. If there is a propane leak bubbles will be released.
- If it smells like gas while cooking, safely turn off the grill and call 911 from a safe location.
- Do not smoke while handling a propane tank.
- If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least five minutes before re-lighting it.
- When storing propane, keep in a cool, dry place outdoors and at least 10 feet away from a house, deck, or structure.
Charcoal Grills
- Only use charcoal starter fluid when starting a charcoal grill. Do not use gas or other lighter fluids.
- Let the coals cool completely before disposing. Dispose of coals in a cool metal container.
- Keep charcoal starter 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.
In case of an emergency call 911.
The Merrimac Fire Department would like to wish residents and community members a safe grilling season!
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