|
 Fire departments respond to about 5,700
residential grill fires annually, most of which are between May and
August, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s U.S.
Fire Administration.
These fires cause an estimated $37 million in damages annually and
result in thousands of emergency room visits.
“The best way to prevent damages and injuries when grilling is to
maintain your equipment,” says Diane Reinhold, University of
Illinois Extension nutrition and wellness educator and registered
dietitian.
The leading cause of grill fires is mechanical failure or
malfunction and grill owners should do a safety check annually as
well as every time the cylinder, hose, or regulator is disconnected.
Gas grills have a higher fire risk than charcoal because of leaks or
breaks in pieces. Leaks can be caused by improperly sealed
connections, cracked or split hoses, or damage from wildlife. Also
pay attention to the connection at the regulator, as this area often
becomes clogged.
To inspect a gas grill, start by mixing a 50/50 solution of dish
soap and water. After installing a gas cylinder, turn all controls
to the off position. Open the gas cylinder by turning the valve one
rotation to the left. Then, lightly apply the soap mixture to the
hose and other gas connections. If soapy bubbles form, there is a
gas leak. Turn off the gas and do not attempt to grill.
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Check connections to see if they need to be tightened then do
another soap test. If the leak continues, contact a professional for service.
Attempting to fix the leak yourself may lead to potentially dangerous
situations.
Reinhold says the leading factor contributing to grill-related
fires is a dirty grill. The build-up of grease and fat may lead to the grill
overheating and could melt plastic dials and flexible hoses, warp metal, and
crack ceramics.
“Contrary to popular belief that a seasoned grill provides the most flavor, it
is crucial to clean grates, burners, side tables, and the grease trap,” Reinhold
says.
If the tiny holes where gas escapes become clogged by food, the flames will be
unevenly distributed, resulting in hot or dead areas on the grill.
Always follow the manufacturers' instructions for cleaning grills. Regular
cleaning will help ensure the grill is performing at its best and extend its
life.
It will also help prevent food from being contaminated by harmful bacteria
lingering in old grease. In warm weather, grease and oils on grates or the
bottom of the grill can quickly become rancid. This grease can vaporize and give
food an off flavor.
[SOURCE/WRITER: Diane Reinhold,
Nutrition and Wellness Educator, University of Illinois Extension] |
