March 9, 2016
Fire Up the Grill!
Take care with BBQs to reduce risk of injury, fires
The recent bump in temps have made the weather just perfect for weekends around the BBQ. However, each year about 30 people are injured as a result of gas grill fires and explosions. Many of these incidents occur when consumers first use a grill that has been left idle for a period of time or just after refilling and reattaching the grill’s gas container.
To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, consumers should routinely perform the following safety checks:
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Check the tubes that lead into the burner for any blockage from insects, spiders or food grease.
• Use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear blockage and push it through to the main part of the burner.
• Check grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks.
• Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or tubing. Move gas hoses as far away as possible from hot surfaces and dripping hot grease. If you can’t move the hoses, install a heat shield to protect them.
• Replace scratched or nicked connectors, which can eventually leak gas.
• Check for gas leaks. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, if you smell gas or when you reconnect the grill to the LP gas container. If you detect a leak, immediately turn off the gas and don’t’ attempt to light the grill until the leak is fixed.
• Keep lighted cigarettes, matches or open flames way from a leaking grill.
• Never use a grill indoors. Use the grill at least 10 feet away from your house or any building. Do not use the grill in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch or under a surface that can catch fire.
• Do not attempt to repair the tank valve or the appliance yourself. See an LP gas dealer or a qualified appliance repair person.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions that accompany the grill.
When using a charcoal grill, remember to never use the grill inside the home, vehicle, tents or campers. And do not store the grill indoors with freshly used coals.
Finally, it is important to know the ordinances on use of grills in multi-family dwellings. Before firing up, on the patio, find out if it’s allowed. Look at the Scottsdale guidelines by visiting www.scottsdaleaz.gov and searching “BBQ grills.”
