MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Maryland (DC News Now) — Families across the country may be firing up their grills, whether for Father’s Day or during the summer, and fire officials are reminding those families to be careful while grilling.
The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) offers tips on how to “grill like a pro” – and six mistakes you should avoid to reduce the risk of fire.
The first warning from the MCFRS was to clean the grill before use, especially if it has not been used for a long time. The authorities explained that grease and oil deposits provide fuel for a possible fire.
MCFRS also advised placing grills far from our house – the farther the better, although at least 10 feet is the minimum. You should also avoid placing awnings, umbrellas or tree branches too close to the grill – while they may provide the shade you may be looking for, being close to them can start a fire.
Like any other flame, you should never leave a burning grill unattended — “not even for a minute,” reminds MCFRS. Fire experts say a fire can double in size in just one minute.
Authorities also warn you not to use the grill indoors, whether at home or in the garage. This poses a serious fire hazard and the grills also emit carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless and potentially deadly gas.
If you have a gas grill, always leave the lid open when lighting it, otherwise gas could build up inside and create a fireball, MCFRS said.
MCFRS has also reminded everyone to turn off their grills after use.
The fire officials had the following final warnings:
- Check for propane gas leaks,
- Wait to relight if the flame goes out.
- Be careful with the charcoal lighter – do not add it if the fire is about to go out,
- Make sure the grill is on a stable, flat and level surface.
- Wear appropriate clothing and make sure nothing dangles over the grill.
Montgomery County’s official guidelines and criteria for fire pits, fire bowls and fireplaces can be found Here and general information on outdoor cooking near apartment buildings in the district Here.
