Fire marshal offers tips for grilling safely » The VW Independent

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COLUMBUS — As Ohioans kick off the unofficial start of the summer grilling season, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of the State Fire Marshal (SFM) reminds grill masters of all levels to exercise caution during future outdoor meals.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, each year, approximately 9,500 people are burned by grill fires or hot grills. Additionally, an average of 10,600 home fires are caused by barbecues each year.

“Safe grilling isn’t just about preventing fires; it’s about protecting our families, friends and neighbors from preventable accidents,” said Anita Metheny, chief of SFM’s fire prevention office. “By following a few safety tips, we focus not only on having a great summer, but also on protecting what matters. »

To ensure a safe grilling season and prevent potential fire hazards, the State Fire Marshal emphasizes the importance of following specific grilling safety tips.

• Grill exclusively outdoors: Always use propane, gas, and charcoal grills outdoors to avoid fire hazards. Make sure the area above and around your grill is free of any combustible materials.
• Keep your grill away from structures: Keep grills at least 10 feet from your home or any wooden structure to avoid fire hazards.
• Stable surfaces are essential: Place your grill on a flat, level surface, such as a concrete slab, to avoid tipping and potential fires.
• Inspect for Leaks: Before grilling season begins, check your grill for any gas leaks that could lead to dangerous buildup when the lid is closed.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean your grill after each use. Grease buildup can serve as fuel and catch fire the next time you use your grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended: Always supervise your grill when it is in use. Grills left unattended pose a significant fire risk.
• Dress appropriately: avoid wearing loose clothing that can easily catch fire.
• Keep a spray bottle handy: A spray bottle filled with water can be used to safely manage smoke flare-ups without spreading the fire.
• Have a fire extinguisher nearby: In case of an unforeseen emergency, always have a fire extinguisher on hand when grilling.

If filling a propane tank, please do so with caution. Filling propane tanks involves precise measurements and strict adherence to safety codes to avoid injury. Filling a tank more than 80 percent can result in dangerous situations such as ruptures or leaks which can cause accidents, environmental hazards and property damage. Here are the signs of an overfilled propane tank.

• Overwhelming odor of propane gas, or mercaptan, which is added to odorless propane.
• Flow of liquid propane vapor coming out of the tank.
• The anti-overflow device is unlocked.
• The sound of propane leaking from the tank.
• The gauge on the tank is high after being filled.