Grill season safety tips

  • Published
  • By Airman Kenna Jackson
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  According to the National Fire Protection Agency, grill-related fires cause an average of 15 deaths, 120 injuries and $75 million in property loss and damage each year. More than one-quarter of the fires start on courtyards, patios, terraces and screened-in porches and 24 percent start on exterior balconies and open porches.

This is why every June and July, the peak season for grill-related fires, the base safety office and fire department issues these safety reminders:

Propane Grill Safety Tips

· Make sure grill propane tanks are not leaking

· When turning off grill, make sure to turn off the bottle first and let the gas run out

· Never leave grill unattended

Charcoal Grill Safety Tips

· Before leaving, make sure coals are completely burned out

· Never leave grill unattended

General Grill Safety Tips

· Make sure grill is relatively clean before usage

· Never use grill indoors , which includes garages, breezeways, carports, porch or under any surface that will burn

· Keep grill at least 10 feet away from house or building

· Keep fire extinguisher nearby

· Make sure grill isn't leaking

· Keep children and pets at least three feet away from grill

· Before leaving grill, make sure flame is fully extinguished

· Never leave grill unattended

"So, before taking out the franks and patties, remember these few simple tips to be safe while grilling," said Tech Sgt. Clive Chipman, 35th Civil Engineer Squadron NCO in charge of fire prevention.

For more information on grill safety call the 35th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Prevention Office at 226-4055.