Grilling Safety

Interim Columbia Richland Fire Chief Aubrey Jenkins wants you to be safe this season. Fire under hot dogs and burgers on the grill is a welcome sight at the family cookout; but a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Read the following tips to avoid injuries and structure fires. Never operate Propane or Charcoal grills or other open flame cooking devices on combustible balconies and decks, under eaves or within 10 feet of a structure. Never use grills that are not UL listed, home made grills pose a fire and life safety risk. Do not set up the grill under low hanging tree branches, limbs or dry leaves and brush or under carports, tents or inside a garage. Keep children and pets away from the grill area. Make this a no play zone. Do not lean over the grill to light it. Do not wear loose fitting clothing as it may catch afire. Keep your grill clean by removing fat and grease buildup. Propane grills; check hoses, connectors and tanks for leaks using soapy water solution, if it bubbles that is a sign that you have a leak. If this is the case, have the grill serviced by a professional before using it. Use only hose lines that are approved for propane or natural gas, do not use makeshift hoses. (i.e. garden or air hoses) Never leave the grill unattended. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call 911. Charcoal grills; If using starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid, NEVER add charcoal starter fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children. If you use an electric charcoal lighter make sure the extension cord is for outdoor use. When you have finished grilling, allow the coals to completely cool before disposing in a metal container.