Kent Fire Department offers barbecue safety tips
Published 5:14 pm Tuesday, June 17, 2014
This weekend temperatures are expected to be in the mid-70s and Saturday is the Summer Solstice – meaning it is the start of summer and the longest day of the year.
If you plan on having a barbecue, the Kent Fire Department Regional Fire Authority asks you to keep these safety tips in mind:
General BBQ safety:
• Always use BBQs out of doors. Bringing them indoors increases the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Stay at the BBQ while cooking. Never leave cooking food unattended.
• Keep kids away from BBQs. All BBQs burn very hot and even slight contact by a child can lead to serious burns.
• Set up BBQs well away from any combustible structures including fences, sunshades, and any building eaves.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, and an aid kit handy in case of an accident.
• Remember that alcohol slows reflexes and dulls thinking. Avoid alcohol until finished cooking.
• Ensure that the BBQ is cool to the touch before storing.
Gas (propane or natural gas) BBQ safety:
• Always open the BBQ lid before turning on the gas to avoid gas build up.
• If your BBQ does not light immediately, turn off gas and consult your instructions.
• If you continue to smell propane once the gill is burning. Shut it off and look for signs of a leak.
• If you use a lighter or match to light a gas grill, light it from an opening on the side of the grill not from over the grill.
• Check the condition of the gas hose going to the BBQ and the connection to any compressed gas tanks.
• When you refill a BBQ propane bottle, check the bottle’s condition. Look for dent, corrosion, or rust.
• Check the expiration date stamped on the bottle and replace if necessary.
Charcoal BBQ safety:
• Avoid using excessive amounts of lighter fluid. Be patient when heating coals.
• Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to light BBQ.
• Move lighter fluid and charcoal containers away from BBQ.
• Charcoal can stay hot for several days after they appear out.
• Store charcoal ashes in an airtight metal container and store away from combustibles.
