With warmer weather days, many of us look forward to spending time outdoors with family and friends. The backyard barbecue provides an excellent opportunity for good food and fun as part of our outdoor activities.  When firing up the backyard barbecue remember to make fire safety your first priority.

Each year many are injured as a result of gas-grill fires and explosions.

Many of these fires occur when we first use a grill that has been idle for a period of time or just after refilling and reattaching the grill’s gas container.

In addition, care should be taken when using a charcoal grill.  Not only is there a risk of fire, but also charcoal produces carbon monoxide when it is burned.  Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can accumulate to toxic levels in closed environments.  Never burn charcoal indoors for heat or cooking.  Let us work together towards making this time of year a fire safe and injury free summer.

Barbecue Safety

Ø       Be sure the barbecue grill is located in a safe place away from tables and other places where people gather.  Keep items that will burn a safe distance away in all directions.

Ø       Provide proper clearance around barbecues.  Be sure to check above the barbecue for patio covers, awnings, hanging plants and other combustibles that could ignite.

Ø       Never leave a heated barbecue unattended. Children should always play far away from a heated barbecue grill.

Gas Grill Safety Tips

Ø       Check the tubes that lead into the burner for any blockage from insects, spiders, or food grease.

Ø       Check grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks.

Ø       Check for gas leaks, following manufacturer’s instructions.

Ø       Never use a grill indoors.  Use the grill at least 10 feet away from your house or any building.

Ø       Do not use the grill in a garage, breezeway, carport, and porch or under a surface that can catch fire.

Charcoal Grill Safety Tips

Ø       As with gas grills, be sure the charcoal grill is located in a safe place, with proper clearance around the barbecue.

Ø       Use only approved charcoal lighter fluid. Never use gasoline.

Ø       Never add lighter fluid to the coals after they have ignited.

Ø       Never burn charcoal inside of home, vehicles, tents or campers.

Ø       Always check the coals to be sure they are completely out before storing, cleaning or disposing. Allow charcoal briquettes 48 hours to cool before disposing.

You may email me at askthechief@anaheim.net, or write to me at "Ask the Chief”

Anaheim Fire Department Community Relations Section

201 S. Anaheim Blvd., MS#301, Anaheim, CA 92805.