State fire marshal urges residents to take precautions when grilling
Outdoor grills represent a high risk for
injuries and fires
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[July 03, 2012]
SPRINGFIELD
-- The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal is reminding
residents about the potential dangers of outdoor grills. As grilling
season has arrived, it is important for outdoor cooks to inspect
their grills before use to ensure that all parts are functioning
properly.
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"The summer season is time to enjoy outdoor activities, which for
many residents may include cooking on an outdoor grill," said Larry
Matkaitis, state fire marshal. "We want to ensure that those
individuals are aware of the safety hazards before grilling, and
take proper precautions." In Illinois, nearly 170 fires related to
grills were reported last year. According to the National Fire
Protection Association, gas grills are the leading cause of
approximately 7,000 home fires in the United States every year.
Charcoal or other solid-fueled grills are the cause of about 1,300
home fires. As a result of those fires, approximately 15 deaths are
reported and 120 people suffer injuries. In addition, $70 million in
direct property damage due to grilling is reported every year.
The OSFM offers the following grill safety tips:
-
Propane and
charcoal barbecue grills must be used outdoors only. Use in an
enclosed space could expose occupants to toxic gases and
potential asphyxiation.
-
Position the grill
well away from siding, deck railings and out from under leaves
and tree branches.
-
Place the grill a
safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
-
Keep children and
pets away from the grill area.
-
Designate a 3-foot
"safe zone" around the grill.
-
Use long-handled
grilling tools for plenty of clearance from heat and flames.
-
Remove grease or
fat buildup in trays below the grill in order to not cause
ignition.
-
Do not apply
aerosol sunscreen lotion before grilling. Read the instructions,
as some sunblock lotions may not be used near heat or flame.
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Never leave the grill unattended.
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Charcoal grills:
-
Purchase the
proper starter fluid and store the can out of reach of children
and away from heat sources.
-
Never add charcoal
starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited.
-
Never use any
flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter
fluid to start a grill fire.
-
When done grilling, make sure coals are
completely cool before disposing of them.
Propane grills:
-
Check the gas
cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each
year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will
quickly reveal escaping propane by releasing bubbles.
-
If a gas smell is
detected while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and
call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
For more information about grilling safety, visit the OSFM's
website at
www.sfm.illinois.gov or
www.nfpa.org/grilling.
[Text from
Office of the State Fire
Marshal file
received from the
Illinois Office of
Communication and Information] |