Yesterday on our Facebook page, we shared a news article regarding a Nashua, New Hampshire fire that destroyed a 36-unit apartment building, leaving residents homeless, and put two firefighters in the hospital. While the official cause is still under investigation, the initial report stated that the fire was the result of a grill fire. With this sad news, we feel that it is important to take the opportunity to share some grilling tips that may help prevent another terrible situation.

While some of the tips below may seem obvious, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2014, 16,600 people went to the emergency room as the result of grilling related injuries. Additionally, an average of 3,900 structure fires and 5,100 outside fires, totaling $118 million in direct property damage, are reported annually.

You can protect yourself, your loved ones, and property by adhering to the following safety guidelines while grilling:

  • Only grill outside, in a well ventilated area and always make sure that the lid is open prior to lighting a gas grill
  • Place grill away from structures, and be mindful of deck railings and overhanging eaves
  • Clean your grill after each use, be sure to remove grease and fat buildup that can easily ignite
  • Use long-handled utensils specifically designed for grilling to avoid burns and splatters
  • If the flame goes out, wait at least 5 minutes after turning the grill and gas off before attempting to relight
  • Ensure that children and pets stay at least three feet from the grill
  • Never leave the grill unattended while cooking
  • Keep a fire extinguisher, bucket of sand or garden hose nearby to extinguish growing flames before they can spread

July is the peak month for grill fires, but we strongly encourage you to employ these safety practices to  help prevent injury or worse every time you grill. As always, safety is no accident.