How to Avoid Fire Hazards When Grilling This Summer | SERVPRO® of Western Dutchess County

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Grill fires can cause more damage than you could anticipate, be safe this grilling season!

Grill fires can happen to any grill and any person, leading to serious damage to your deck and home in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, Wappingers or Beacon. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association reports that grills were involved in over 10,000 home fires in a four-year span, with July being the most popular time for these incidents. 

That’s why it is important to be aware of what conditions can cause a grill fire—and how to prevent one—so you can stay safe while having summer fun.

~What Causes Grill Fires?

While there is a fire risk anytime someone is cooking, because of the open flame and direct contact, grills pose a unique risk for flare-ups. Common causes of grill fires include:

* Overfilled grease pans

* Burner tubes blocked due to debris or insects

* Uncleaned grill grates

* Grilling near combustible materials—heat radiates farther than you may think!

* Leaving grills unattended

~How to Prevent Grill Fires

The best way to avoid accruing damage from a grill fire is by preventing one from happening in the first place. 

Here are a few ways you can care for your grill and prevent fires, too:

1. Clean your drip pans frequently. Cleaning your grill is the best way to prevent grease fires and flare-ups. Under the cooking grids and burners, every grill is equipped with a drip tray. When these trays become full and reach high temperatures, grease fires can occur. Check your pans or trays every time you use the grill to ensure they are not getting overfilled.   
2. Scrape down cooking grates. Not only do meat and grease that are dried onto your grill grates harbor bacteria that can affect the outcome of your meal, but they can also cause dangerous fires. After preheating your grill, use a grill brush to scrape off grates—and scrape again after cooking. It is also advised to frequently give grates a scrub with soap and water while the grill is cool.
3. Keep safety supplies nearby. Baking soda is an extremely effective fire extinguisher, as it quickly cuts off oxygen the fire needs. Keep baking soda and a fire extinguisher nearby each time you grill to smother any flames. 

Tip: Never use water to put out a grease fire, as it can actually cause the flames to spread.

If you’ve experienced fire damage from a grill or any other occurrence, SERVPRO® of Western County is here to help you! Give us a call today to talk with one of our fire remediation experts. We're here to help, 24/7 for emergencies.