As summer approaches, many people are looking forward to backyard barbecues with family and friends. However, grill fires are responsible for more than 7,000 injuries each year in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It is important to practice safe grilling habits to avoid a fire. Here are some tips for staying safe while using your grill this summer.
Barbecue Safety Tips:
1. Keep a Safe Distance Between Your Grill & Any Structures
In general, you need to keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home. This also applies to garages, carports, porches, and overhangs. Decorations should also be kept a good distance away. Flare ups could easily ignite nearby objects, so the farther your gill is away from your house, the better.
2. Check for Gas Leaks Before Using Your Grill
You always need to check for a gas leak before using a gas grill. One way to do this is to mix dish soap with some water, and brush or spray this mixture onto the gas hose and connections. If bubbles form when you turn on the gas, this means there is a leak. Turn off the gas, tighten the connections or replace the hose, and check again before lighting the grill. This can help prevent an explosion.
3. Always Light the Grill with the Lid Open
Lighting the grill when the lid is closed will make gas build up inside. Then, when you go to open the lid, the gas will ignite. The explosion could cause serious burn injuries, so it is important to leave your gas grill lid open when you light it.
4. Never Leave Your Grill Unattended
A grill fire can double in size every minute. This means, if you are not watching carefully, you could be at risk for a serious fire. If you fail to monitor your grill, it may have serious consequences. You should prepare beforehand so you can stay by the grill at all times.
5. Keep a Spray Bottle of Water & Fire Extinguisher Close By
A spray bottle of water is good to douse minor flare ups without ruining your food. However, you also need to have a fire extinguisher within easy reach to put out major fires. It is also important to know how to properly use the fire extinguisher.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a grill fire or by another hazardous condition on someone else’s property, Goeing Goeing & McQuinn PLLC is here to help. Call our Lexington personal injury attorneys today at (859) 253-0088 to schedule a free case evaluation.