Know the Essentials of Grilling Safety | SERVPRO® of Van Nuys South
7/24/2020 (Permalink)
Grilling is one of our favorite ways to make use of a summer afternoon with the family. Not only is it a great way to prepare delicious meals, but it is also an ideal scenario to practice fire safety skills, as well. Because of the prevalence of grill fires, remembering to keep safety in mind when it is time to cook outdoors will keep every grill session safe.
Grill fires are not uncommon—it is reported by the U.S. Fire Administration that they occur nearly 6,000 times a year, mostly in the summer months. We always try to remind everyone to be safe during the warmer weather to prevent a grill fire from happening to them.
Keep Every Grill Session Safe With These Fire Safety Tips
Create a safe zone around your grill. The convenience of where your grill is located is probably the top thing you consider when placing it in your yard, but remembering safety considerations is just as essential. A three-foot buffer around the grill should be the minimum that is kept free from flammable materials and people.
Clean your grill grates often. Bits of food and grease can adhere to your grill grates when you are cooking, which can not only alter the cooking temperatures of your grill but can also lead to a fire hazard. These bits of food can ignite suddenly if they are left undisturbed, so experts advise cleaning them off after every meal.
Never leave the grill unattended. In many instances of a fire, catching it quickly was the thing that prevented it from becoming a full-on catastrophe—but if no one is watching the grill, you will not have this chance. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby at all times and make sure someone is designated to watch the grill if you must step away for any reason.
Inspect the grill regularly. Just like any other tool you use around the house, checking your grill for wear and tear is a valuable part of your routine. Propane tanks and lines can all become worn with time, but a quick visual inspection can help you be certain you are not at risk for gas leaks or other issues.
If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us any time, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.