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SUMMER COOKOUT TIPS FROM THE FIRE
MARSHAL.
With the nicer weather arriving many turn to outdoor
cooking for preparing their meals. Gas and charcoal grills cause an average
of 900 home fires and 3,500 outdoor fires every year. Leaks and breaks
in the gas cylinder or hose are a leading cause as is placing combustibles
too close to heat and leaving cooking unattended. Half of all gas and
charcoal grill residential fires begin on an exterior balcony or open
porch. Don’t just grill outside; grill well away from your home.
The following tips if followed may
help you have a safe outdoor cooking summer season;
-position the grill well away
from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves.
-don’t cook in enclosed spaces
such as tents and garages.
-place the grill a safe
distance away from foot traffic and play areas.
-keep children and pets away
from the grill.
-have a 3 ft. ‘safe zone’
around your grill.
-use long-handled tools to
give plenty of room for the chef when cooking.
-periodically remove grease or
fat build-up in trays below the grill.
Additional tips for charcoal grills;
-use proper starter fluid and
store it out of reach of children away from heat.
-never add charcoal starter
fluid when coals are already burning.
-never use any fluid other
than charcoal starter fluid.
Additional tips for gas grills;
-check the gas cylinder for
leaks before using by applying soapy water on
the fittings. If
you see this fluid bubbling, you have a leak.
-if you smell gas while
cooking get away from the grill and call 911.
-only use equipment that has
been tested and approved by an independent
laboratory like
U.L.
-always follow the
manufacturer’s instructions on how to set-up and operate
your gas grill.
-never store propane cylinders
in buildings or garages.
IF YOU HAVE
QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS OR ANY OTHER FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY ISSUE PLEASE CONTACT
THE IRMO FIRE DISTRICT AT 798-4979.
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