COLLEGE STATION – Besides fireworks, nothing says the Fourth of July like a cookout. To help Texans declare independence from fires and other mishaps related to outdoor grilling, a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert has offered some advice.
National Fire Protection Association data show outdoor grilling is responsible for about 8,800 fires annually. (Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service photo)
“It’s extremely important that people take extra care if planning to grill outdoors, especially in open areas,” said Dr. Joyce Cavanagh, AgriLife Extension specialist in family development and resource management, College Station. “Three out of four households have an outdoor grill, and cookouts are a favorite activity during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.”
Data from the National Fire Protection Association shows each year an average of 8,800 home fires are started as a result of grilling, and close to half of all injuries involving grills are due to thermal burns. And while nearly half of the people who grill do so throughout the year, July is the peak month for this activity.
Some outdoor grilling fire safety tips offered by AgriLife Extension and the National Fire Protection Association include:
– Setting up the grill on a concrete surface or on ground where grass and vegetation in the area are trimmed and there are no dry leaves, brush, mulch piles or other combustibles nearby.
– Placing the grill in an open area away from deck railings, eaves and overhanging branches or other combustible surfaces.
– If using a gas grill, checking for leaks and make sure hose connections are tight.
– Placing the grill at least 10 feet away from your house or building, and do not grill in a garage or under a carport or other surface that might catch fire.
– Keeping young children and pets at least 3 feet from the grill.
– Removing any grease or fat buildup from the grill and/or in the trays below the grill.
– Keeping charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
– Never leaving the grill unattended once the fire has been lit.
– Not attempting to move a hot grill.
– Keeping a multi-purpose fire extinguisher within reach.
– Using flame-retardant mitts and grilling tools with long handles instead of household forks or short-handled tongs.
– When finished grilling, letting the coals completely cool before disposing, and use a metal container for disposal.
– If using a liquid propane grill, taking extreme caution and always follow manufacturer recommendations for connecting or disconnecting the tank.
“We want people to be safe during their Fourth of July holiday cookout, and following these tips on grilling safety can minimize the chance of starting a fire,” Cavanagh said.
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