|
Practice safety when grilling
By Nancy Hastings
Hillsdale, Mich.
HILLSDALE - With outdoor grilling being a great way to enjoy the tastes of summer, the State Fire Marshal reminds Michiganders that following certain guidelines will ensure safe grilling all season long.
"Always think safety first and use common sense before lighting up the grill," Fire Marshal Richard Miller said in a release. "Every year we tend to see an increase in the number of serious injuries caused by the careless use of grills resulting in fires."
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments respond to an average 7,700 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues each year.
Hillsdale Fire Department Captain Eric Pressler said he can recall several house fires over the years due to porch grilling.
"In my own experience, I've had difficulties happen when the connection to the tank isn't tight, causing a leak," he said. "Maintaining hoses is very important and after you use the grill, shut the tank off. Also, bleed the lines of any propane and don't leave the grill unattended.
According to Miller, gas grills aren't any safer than other grills. In fact, six out of seven grill fires involve a gas grill.
"The leading contributing factor to these fires was a leak or break in hoses or other equipment, so maintenance is particularly important with gas grills to protect yourself and your family," he said in the release.
Miller said that gas grills are safe and convenient when used properly, but use liquid propane (LP) gas that's pressurized and requires special handling and storage. Charcoal grills are still preferred by some people and can also be potentially dangerous when not used properly.
Pressler said he has burns on his deck from charcoal grilling, when coals fell out and burned into the wood. And when using gas grills, he reminds people that if they have one of the newer five-burner grills, the temperature can get up to 600 degrees.
"People need to be careful when putting paper plates close by and place the grill away from siding that can melt and cause a fire," he said. "Most know there can be a buildup of grease over time and when you turn on the grill it can flame up."
He admits to turning up a grill once to burn off the grease and then forgetting about it. Not only do you use up all your propane, but the chance of fire is great, he said.
"If the grill catches fire, get the lid down on it and shut the burners off," he said. "For a charcoal fire, you can use an extinguisher, and I always keep a hose next to the grill. The main thing is to use the grill away from the house."
| 
