State Fire Marshal Offers Cookout Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend
JEFFERSON CITY, May 23, 2007-Memorial Day weekend marks an official start
to summer for many Missourians. Seasonal festivities often include outdoor grilling
but State Fire Marshal Randy Cole warns that cookouts can easily turn into a hazardous situation if proper precautions are not taken.
“Common sense can prevent a great family gathering from turning into a tragic incident,”
Cole said. “We want everyone to stay safe and do their part in preventing accidents.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), gas and charcoal grills
cause over 4,000 fires that result in over $30 million in property loss annually. Gas
grills statistically pose a greater risk and nearly half of their fires are caused by leaks
or breaks in the grill. However, charcoal grills account for more deaths, typically caused
by placing combustibles too close to the heat source or leaving cooking unattended.
There are several tips for providing one’s family with a safe grilling experience. For example,
propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors. If used indoors or in an enclosed
space, they create both a fire hazard and a risk of exposing oneself and others to toxic gases.
Safety Tips for Outdoor Grilling:
Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves.
Keep children away from the grilling area: enforce a three-foot “safe zone” around the grill.
Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill to avoid it from being
ignited by the heat.
Charcoal Grills:
Purchase and use proper starting fluid and store the container out of reach of
children and away from heat sources.
Never add starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited.
Never use any flammable or combustible liquid near the grill other than charcoal starter fluid.
Gas Grills:
Check the gas cylinder for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Leaks
can be detected by using a soapy water solution applied to the house and fittings.
Bubbles will appear where leaks are present.
If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire
department. DO NOT attempt to move the grill.
All gas cylinders manufacture after April 2002 must have overfill protection devices
(OPD). OPDs are easily identified by their triangular-shaped handle wheel.
Use only equipment bearing the mark of an independent testing laboratory.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions how to set up the grill and maintain it.
NEVER store propane gas cylinders in buildings or garages.