Memorial Day weekend is just ahead and for many it may mean taking to the highway for a quick vacation, breaking out the grill for some outdoor cooking, or taking that first dip in the pool. The Norwalk Fire Department offers some fire safety tips to help everyone have a great weekend. The Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer and we want everyone to enjoy it, There are simple steps people can take to help stay safe while they have fun over the holiday weekend.”. The NFPA reports that approx 8,900 home fires are started by grills each year. July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by May, June and August.
The onset of grilling season often results in injuries and fires due to careless cooking practices. These steps can help you stay safe while enjoying those tasty cookout treats:
- Never grill indoors.
- Always supervise a grill when in use, and make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.
- Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
- Use the long-handled tools specially made for cooking on the grill.
- Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using grills.
- Be ready to close the lid and turn off the grill to cut off the fuel if necessary.
- Keep a fireproof pan under the grill to catch any falling ash or grease.