Backyard BBQ Safety and How to Prevent Fire Disasters
Fire up the fun, not the backyard. Summer is the time for backyard barbecues galore – sizzling burgers, refreshing drinks, and good company. But amidst the fun, it’s crucial to remember fire safety. This is especially important if you live in the state of Texas, where summer’s are very dry! Don’t worry, though. With a few simple precautions, you can make sure your BBQ is a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Here are some ways you can prevent fire disasters:
1. Location, Location, Location
Where you place your grill is critical. Keep it at least 10 feet away from your house, deck railings, or anything else flammable. Avoid placing it under eaves, overhanging branches, or balconies. Look overhead for any low-hanging trees that could catch fire. Choose a level, stable surface to minimize the risk of tipping.
2. Grill Prep is Key
Before you fire up the grill, give it a thorough inspection. Check for possible gas leaks with a soapy water solution (bubbles indicate a leak). Clean any grease buildup from previous grilling sessions. This buildup can ignite and cause a fire.
3. Light it Right
When using a gas grill in particular, always open the lid before turning on the gas. This allows any gas buildup to escape and prevents an explosion. Never add lighter fluid to hot coals or a lit fire.
4. Become a Grill Master, Not a Disaster
Never leave a lit grill unattended. This is especially important when dealing with flare-ups. Keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby to douse minor flare-ups. For larger fires, invest in a fire extinguisher rated for Class B (grease) fires. Also, make sure to keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill at all times.
5. Dress for Grilling Success
What you wear while grilling does matter. Avoid flowy shirts, dangling scarves, or apron ties that could catch fire from sparks or flames. Opt for fitted clothing made from flame-resistant materials like cotton or denim.
6. Separate the Fun Zones
We mentioned how important location is above when it comes to flammables, but did we mention how important it is when it comes to designated “fun zones”? Not only should you place your grill away from flammable materials, but you should also place it away from high foot traffic areas. This avoids people accidentally bumping into the grill. You should also plan to keep active games away from the grilling area. Active games like frisbee or badminton have no place near the hot dogs and burgers. A stray throw or enthusiastic run could lead to unintended contact with the grill. Remember, safety first but fun always.
7. Extinguish Thoroughly, Every Time
Don’t be fooled by dying embers. Even seemingly extinguished coals can retain heat and reignite later. Make sure you use a water canister or fire extinguisher to douse the coals completely. Make sure you never leave the grill unattended until the coals are completely cool, even if you think you’ve fully extinguished the fire.
Contact Rescue Restoration for All Your Fire Mitigation Needs in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX and the Surrounding Areas
By following these simple preventative safety measures, you can ensure your backyard BBQ is a place for creating delicious food and lasting memories, not unwanted fire alarms. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite people, and have a fantastic summer BBQ! If, however, you’re faced with the aftermath of a fire (big or small), you don’t have to deal with it alone. Rescue Restoration is here for all your fire mitigation needs. Contact us today! We can also provide more tips to best prevent fire disasters going forward.
