Summer Grilling Can Carry Fire Dangers

8/7/2010

During summer gatherings, some people may forget to follow basic safety procedures when grilling outdoors or handling cooking equipment in general.

In fact, the National Fire Protection Association reports that between 2003 and 2006, there were more than 7,900 home fires reported each year, resulting in an average of 10 annual fatalities and $80 million in property damage.

People who use gas grills may want to be especially concerned with safety. According to the NFPA, gas grills are used 1.5 times more often than charcoal grills, but are linked to five times as many fires. Among fires related to grilling, the organization added, 33 percent started on an exterior balcony or unenclosed porch, while 18 percent were said to have started on a courtyard, terrace or patio.

A large number of the fires were also apparently started after a flammable or combustible gas or liquid caught fire.

With these things in mind, the NFPA advises people to do their grilling a reasonable distance away from homes and other structures, and to also keep a safe distance from foot traffic, play activity and similar things.

In order to further improve safety and hold down any prospective home insurance claims, people can also consider keeping one or two fire extinguishers on hand.

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