Backyard barbecue safety tips

Published April 16, 2008
By John Gilmore
341st Civil Engineer Squadron assistant fire chief

MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- · · According to the National Fire Protection Association, gas and charcoal grills caused 3,400 structure fires and 4,900 outdoor fires in or on home properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $137 million in 2005.

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" keeping kids and pets well 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, or under house awning on back porch, any shrubs or bushes.

· 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 be sure it is working properly and not leaking. Check connections using a small spray bottle with soapy water to find your 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 and carbon monoxide poisoning hazard.

Contact the fire prevention office at 731-4836 or 731-4100 with any questions or concerns pertaining to your grill.