NFPA reminds cooks to include fire safety while grilling Published June 11, 2008 By Courtesy of 90th Civil Engineer Squadron 90th Civil Engineer Squadron F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- In 2005, fire departments responded to 8,300 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues, according to a National Fire Protection Agency report. Taking steps to keep grills a safe distance away from kids, pets and flammable objects will help prevent home fires and injuries caused by grills, said Greg Chesser, Warren Fire Department assistant fire chief. Six out of seven home grill fires involve a gas grill and the leading contributing factor was a leak or break in hoses or other equipment, he said. The leading factor in charcoal grill fires was a burnable item too close to the grill. For general grilling safety information, tips, audio clips and slide shows, visit http://www.nfpa.org/grilling. NFPA offers safety tips as well: -Gas and charcoal barbecue grills must be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces, such as tents, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation. -Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. -Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic. -Keep children and pets away from the grill area. Declare a three-foot child-free zone around the grill. -Put out several long-handled grilling tools to give plenty of clearance from heat and flames when flipping burgers. -Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill. Charcoal Grills -Purchase the proper starter fluid. Store the can out of reach of children and away from heat sources. -Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited, and never use any flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to get the fire going. Gas Grills -Check the gas cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will quickly reveal escaping propane by releasing bubbles. If a grill has a gas leak, determined by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame: Turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. - If gas is smelled while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill. -Use only the equipment bearing a mark of an independent testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it. -Never store propane gas cylinders in buildings or garages. If a gas grill is stored inside during the winter, disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside.