posted Jun 11, 2012, 3:25 PM by Charles Mitchell
 Every year Americans look forward to
summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July.
Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to outdoor cooking and
recreational fires. Annually, there are almost 3,800 Americans injured by gas
or charcoal grill fires. (Source: CPSC)
Summertime
should be a time of fun and making happy memories. Knowing a few fire safety
tips and following safety instructions will help everyone have a safe summer.
Safety Tips
for Grilling and Campfires
- Position the grill well away
from siding, deck railing, and out from under eaves and overhanging
branches.
- Keep children and pets from the
grill area: declare a three-foot "safe zone" around the grill.
- If you own a propane grill,
check the cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each
year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will reveal
escaping propane quickly by releasing bubbles.
- Avoid using soft wood, such as
pine or cedar that will likely pop and throw sparks, in a fire pit. Use of
seasoned hardwood is suggested.
Don’t build a campfire at a site in hazardous, dry conditions or if the
campground, area, or event rules prohibit campfires.
The United States Fire Administration recommends
everyone should have a comprehensive fire protection plan that includes smoke
alarms, residential sprinklers, and practicing a home fire escape plan.
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