BBQ, grilling safety during summer

  • Published
  • By Edwards AFB Fire Prevention
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Summer is quickly approaching. Outdoor activities are already starting to happen due to the warmer weather. It's time once again to start thinking and practicing grilling safety. The Edwards Fire Department would like to actively involve our base-wide family with tips and tools that will ensure safe practices when grilling.
 
Charcoal Grills
There are several ways to get the charcoal ready for use. One of the safest ways to start charcoal is with a charcoal chimney starter. It allows you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel. If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to an active fire. Gasoline should never be used as a starter fluid. Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources. There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord UL rated for outdoor use. When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container. DO NOT PLACE HOT COALS IN ANY REFUSE CONTAINER!!!

Propane Grills
Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.

General Safety Tips
· Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors. ONLY!!!
· Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to an active fire.
· Gasoline should never be used as a starter fluid. Vapors are very flammable and will flash over when they are ignited causing injury, damage to property and/or death.
· The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
· Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
· Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
· Never leave your grill unattended

If you have any questions regarding this, or any other fire safety issue, just call the Edwards AFB Fire Prevention Branch at (661) 277-3643/5598. Remember; in case of an emergency dial 911 from a duty or housing phone, if you are calling from a cell phone call (661) 277-4540/4541.