Memorial Day Grilling Safety Tips

Firing up the grill today? Here are some grilling safety tips from the Prince George’s County Fire and EMS:  

Basic Grill Safety

• Grills must never be used indoors; the fumes create carbon monoxide which become highly toxic in enclosed areas.  
• Grills must be kept at least 15 feet from any structure or combustible materials.
• Never leave a lit grill unattended.
• Never wear loose fitting clothing that could catch on fire.
• Never use gasoline once the grill has been ignited (never add more fuel to the fire).  
• Grills should be kept on a level surface away from the house, garage and landscaping.
• Keep children away from the grill.
• Don’t grill on decks or in garages.  

Charcoal Grill Safety

• Charcoal produces carbon monoxide (CO) when it is burned.  This colorless, odorless gas can reach toxic levels in a closed environment. Each year people are injured and die as a result of these fumes from grills used indoors.  
• Never burn charcoal inside of the home, even if ventilation is provided.
• Never store a grill indoors with freshly used charcoal. Allow the charcoal to cool 48 hours before disposing.
• Never store charcoal outside where it can get wet. When charcoal dries, it becomes a flammable solid, creating a fire hazard.
• Dispose of grill ashes in a safe fashion.  Never place hot ashes in paper or plastic bags, or plastic containers.  Use metal containers.

 Gas Grill Safety

• Propane and natural gas barbecues are very popular.  Like any gas-fired appliance, they can be dangerous if not used properly.
• All gas lines, valves and connections on a gas grill should be periodically inspected to detect leakage (if a leak is detected, the grill should not be used until it is repaired).    
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations.
• Check for gas leaks.  If you smell gas, 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 away from a leaking grill.