Backyard BBQ safety tips Published June 21, 2013 By Ricky G. Naccarato Assistant Fire Chief for Fire Prevention MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- According to the National Fire Protection Association, grill fires on residential properties result in an estimated average of 10 deaths, 140 injuries and $75 million in property loss each year. To make sure your next barbecue doesn't go up in flames, the Fire and Emergency Services, Fire Prevention Office recommends the following safety tips: Designate the grilling area a "no play zone" and keep kids and pets away until grill equipment is completely cool Before using, position your grill at least 10 feet away from other objects, including the house, base facilities, house awnings on porches, and any shrubs or bushes (REF: AFI 32-2001_341MWSUP_I, paragraph 3.3.5.2.14.8) Never leave a barbecue grill unattended and have a water spray bottle on hand to reduce flames should excessive grease drip down on burners Only use starter fluid made for barbecue grills when starting a fire in a charcoal grill. NEVER use gasoline - an explosion will occur Before using a gas grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line to ensure it is working properly and not leaking. Check connections using a small spray bottle with soapy water to find leaks. If leaks are found, have them repaired before using the grill Never use a match to check for leaks. If you detect a leak, immediately turn off the gas and don't attempt to light the grill again until the leak is fixed Never bring a barbecue grill indoors or into any unventilated space including the garage. This is both a fire hazard and carbon monoxide poisoning hazard Never dump charcoal briquettes into a dumpster until they have been thoroughly soaked with water and cooled for 24 hours For more barbecue safety tips, contact the fire prevention office at 731-4836 or 731-4100.