Precautions to Take to Grill Safe | SERVPRO of East Greenville County

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

"Between '2013-2017, grills, hibachis or barbecues were involved in an average of 10,200 home fires per year.'"

Barbecue Season is Here!

Summer time is a season to unwind with friends and family, or relax by the pool. Arguably, the most common reason people gather during the summer is to enjoy a barbecue or home cooked meal. No matter if you use a gas grill, charcoal grill, hibachi, crock-pot, or stove top, people love to gather for great food and time with those closest to them. 

During the summer month, as we see an increase in gatherings, there is also a corresponding increase in fires. According to Marty Ahrens in his Home Grill Fires study for the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between “2013-2017, grills, hibachis or barbecues were involved in an average of 10,200 home fires per year, including an average of 4,500 structure fires and 5,700 outside or unclassified fires.” His study is focused on the area the fire occurred in, fuel of ignition, and what the leading cause for ignition was. He notes 1,200 (27%) of the fires reported during 2013-2017 were caused by a lack of cleaning, resulting in $1 million dollars in damages collectively. Summer is supposed to be about the outdoors and time with those you love, not fire damages.

Know What To Do

Precautions are necessary to ensure the safety of those you love and your home or business. Before you begin your grilling season, review this list of precautions to take as you host guests at your home.

• Grill at least 10ft. from the edge of your roof. 
• Clean your grill before and after use.
• Be cautious when using lighter fluid.
• Cook on a level surface. 
• Do not leave items unattended.
• Monitor your smoke detectors.

Call Today If You Need Assistance 

We at SERVPRO of East Greenville County hope you enjoy this barbecuing season and take necessary precautions. Should you need assistance with fire damage, smoke damage, or build up, give us a call. We will be ready to respond!

Sources:

https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Home-Grill-Fires

https://myhandymancolumbus.com/8-ways-to-prevent-house-fires-during-the-summer/