Grilling Safety Tips from the Canton Fire Department

By Canton Fire Lt. Tom Driscoll

With the , most of us will take to our backyards this holiday weekend. The holiday weekend is typically spent with family and friends, while enjoying the good weather and cookouts.

The use of significantly increases during the summer, and in 2009 there were 55 grill fires reported in Massachusetts. While this number may seem small, it resulted in $190,826 in property damage and sent two people to the hospital with serious burns.

The would like to share some important safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe while you are cooking on the grill this summer.

• Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
• Grills should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in the trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Propane grills are not permitted on balconies above the first floor.
• Before using a propane grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line to make sure it is tight and there is no leak.
• If you smell propane while cooking, shut the gas off to the grill and call the fire department.
• If you use starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Once the coals have been lit, never add starter fluid to the fire.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

 Any questions about grill safety can be directed to Lt. Tom Driscoll in the Fire Prevention Office at (781)575-6654 x114.