Today is National Hot Dog Day, a great excuse to fire up the grill and enjoy the Alaskan Summer. Safety is always a concern when dealing with fire but the ABC’s of grill safety can help avoid stressful situations.
A – Awareness
When using a grill, always be aware of your surroundings. Check for over hanging trees or debri when setting up the grill. Do not setup a grill too close to a wall or other structure. NFPA reports more than one-quarter of home fires are started by outdoor grills originating on an exterior balcony or open porch. Make sure the grill is stable and not rocking or moving and never leave a lit grill unattended. Watch children and pets to make sure they are not playing too close to a grill. Awareness of your surroundings and the area surrounding a grill goes a long way for safety.
B – Be Prepared
Before deciding to grill, get prepared for the task of grilling. Wear clothing that is safe and not loose hanging or highly flammable. Make sure that apron strings are properly tied, loose hanging shirts are out of the way and tie long hair back. Before starting a gas grill, check for leaks in the lines or tank. If a gas grill turns off unexpectedly, shut off the grill and wait five minutes before starting it back up. Always be prepared by having a fire extinguisher nearby, an alternative is having a bucket of sand nearby. Baking soda or flour also help with grease fires and are handy to have nearby while grilling. Being prepared before setting up a grill makes for peace of mind.
C – Cleanup
Always clean grills before and after each use to avoid buildup. In roughly one-quarter of the fires, the grill had not been cleaned thoroughly. Cleaning buildup off the grill makes for a safer grilling experience. Never overload a grill with too much food and always keep your cooking area clean.
If you, a family member or friend is injured in a fire caused by poor grill management, you may be able to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. An experienced attorney can help research your potential claims, including homeowners insurance coverage.
The Merdes Law Office has helped injured Alaskans for more than 30 years, it’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do.
Source: Nationwide, “9 Grilling Safety Tips for Summer Barbecues“
