Summer is grilling season and we are now here at the peak. Did you know that from 2007 to 2011 there were roughly 8,800 home fires caused by BBQ grills? Each year in that time frame averaged 10 civilian deaths, 140 injuries and $96 MILLLION in direct property damage. Who knew a grill could be so dangerous?
Well, we did, and it is surprising just how many people do not practice proper grilling safety. Each year we see hundreds of Homeowners Insurance claims resulting from damage to your property due to gas and charcoal grills. It is important then that we get the word out about staying safe during peak grilling season.
BBQ Grill Safety Tips
These tips are brought to you by the NFPA:
- Only use your grill outdoors on a level surface that is at least 3 feet from the nearest structure
- Do not let your children or pets play around the grill area
- Periodically clean the grease form the trays below your grill
- When grilling, do not leave your BBQ grill unattended
- If you are using a propane grill, be sure to turn off the valve between uses, and also check the connections for leaks
- When using a charcoal grill, do not let your children handle the starter fluid or attempt to light the grill
- Only use starter fluid that has been approved for use on charcoal grills
- Once you’ve got the grill lit, do not add any more starter fluid; instead add more briquettes when the flames starts to flounder out
- Always wear a heavy apron and oven mitt when grilling – you might not look pretty, but at least you’ll be safe!
Remember, any injuries that happen on your premises due to a grilling accident can come back to haunt you in the form of a lawsuit, so practice grilling safety to not only save lives, but also to save your bank account.