GLOUCESTER — Chief Eric Smith and the Gloucester Fire Department would like to share grilling and outdoor cooking safety tips ahead of summer.
According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), 64 percent of households across the nation own at least one grill, and approximately 10,600 home fires are started by grills.
The Gloucester Fire Department would like to share the following grilling safety tips from the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services and NFPA:
- Grills should only be used outdoors and placed at least 10 feet from the home, siding, or other structures.
- Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill.
- Check the fire danger rating in your area to determine if weather, or other factors, make it dangerous to light a fire.
- Never leave a grill unattended while cooking.
- Clean your grill before and after cooking to ensure there is no buildup of grease, which could lead to a grease fire.
- Make sure all connections are tight before turning on the gas.
- When you are done cooking, always turn off the burners and close the propane.
Charcoal Grills
Only use charcoal starter fluid when starting a charcoal grill. Do not use gas or other lighter fluids.
Let the coals completely cool before disposing. Dispose of coals in a cool metal container.
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.
Propane Grills
Check the tank hose for leaks before using it. To check for a leak, apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. If there is a propane leak the 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.
In case of emergency call 911.
For more information on grill and outdoor cooking safety, contact the Gloucester Fire Department at (978) 325-5300.
