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Grilling Safety

There's nothing like outdoor grilling. It's one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries and they can also melt the siding right off your house if you aren't careful.
Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.

Safety Tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• 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 gill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease and fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

Charcoal Grills

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use.  Charcoal chimney starters allow your 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 the fire.
• 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 designed  for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.  Note: Don't rush this step.

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 the 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.

Facts

• Fire Departments respond to an average of 7,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues each year, including 5,000 outside fires and 2,900 structure fires.
• June and July are the peak months for grill fires.
• Thirty-three percent (33%) of home grill structure fires start on an exterior balcony or unenclosed porch.

The Holden Agency wants you to grill safe and enjoy the carefree days of summer!

These tips are brought to you by the Concord Group Insurance Company by way of  NFPA Public Education Division 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169.  www.NFPA.org/education and www.concordgroupinsurance.com

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