An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Article Display

Keep barbecue safety in mind

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ronald Simpkins
  • 87th Civil Engineer Squadron
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  On average, 1,500 structure fires occur annually due to improper barbecue grilling and another 600 fires are caused by explosions. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 6,100 home fires involving gas or charcoal grills were reported in 1998; and 120 injuries and $80 million in personal property damage in 2003 to 2006 have resulted from improper grilling.

Before any grilling happens, check all grilling hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks. To check for leaks, simply apply light soap with water to grilling hose attachment once the propane tank is turned on; this will release bubbles if a leak is present. Always turn off the propane tank if the smell of gas is strong, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Also move gas hoses as far as possible from hot surfaces and hot grease drips. All propane gas containers must be kept upright and not laid on their sides. Never store flammable liquids like gasoline and lighter fluid in the grilling area.

There are many different ways to ensure the barbeque grilling season remains not only enjoyable but fire safe. The Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Fire Prevention Section recommends the following safety tips:

· Have the grill positioned at the least 15 feet from siding, eaves, and deck railings.
· Declare the grilling area as a "Kid-Free Zone" and "Pet-free Zone" until the grill and heating element is completely free of heat. With limited space in the backyards of family housing, it would be safer to have small children and pets inside during the grilling process.
· Lastly, one part of the grill that is often not inspected is the spark igniter. If it's not consistently generating a spark, discontinue use immediately and consult the manufacture to have the grill serviced by a trained professional.

For more information, contact the JB MDL Fire Prevention Office located at the McGuire Fire Station, Bldg. 1712, 754-4656