Celebrate Safely This Holiday Weekend |
By WebTeam Admin | |
May 29, 2022 | |
Memorial Day weekend is widely regarded as the unofficial start of summer, which means cookouts and barbecues are on the menu. As the holiday season and summer months approach, here are some general safety precautions to keep in mind when grilling and celebrating. According to a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) report, from 2014 to 2018, fire departments responded to an average of 10,600 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues. This includes 4,900 structure fires and 5,700 unclassified or outside fires. These fires resulted in 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries, and $149 million in direct property damage on an annual basis. Grill fires are most common in the summer months, though they can occur at any time of year, according to the NFPA. Failure to clean the grill, placing the heat source too close to combustible materials, leaving equipment unattended and leaks or breaks in the grill or fuel source are the leading causes of grill fires. Here are tips for enjoying a fire-safe grilling season: -For propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks before use in the months ahead. "As grilling season approaches, it is important to review basic safety tips to ensure grillers are using equipment properly and safely, especially if the grill hasn't been used over the winter," said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. |
|