“Well Done” Grilling Safety Tips this Labor Day from Orange County Fire Rescue

Labor Day was founded more than a century ago to celebrate the hard work and achievements of American workers – and that’s worth celebrating for many of us at a backyard BBQ. Labor Day is considered the last grilling holiday of the summer, with half of grill owners reporting they use their grill this holiday.

In an effort to prevent fires and injuries this Labor Day weekend, Orange County Fire Rescue Department offers a few simple safety tips to ensure everyone has a safe holiday.

• Use Outdoor Grills Only. Regardless of the type of grill, only use grills outdoors, at least 10 feet away from any structures or large plants. A grill placed too close to anything flammable is a fire hazard.
• Keep Grills Clean. Be sure to keep grills clean by removing grease and fat build up, as this can also pose the risk for fire. Never leave grills unattended and keep small children at least three feet from the grill area.
• Safely Start.If you use a starter fluid for a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid and never add lighter fluid to coals that are already hot. When finished, ensure coals are completely cooled before disposal. It’s also important to remember that charcoal grills produce carbon monoxide, another reason why it is imperative grills are only used outdoors. If cooking with a propane grill, always check the gas tank hose for leaks. If you smell gas while cooking, get away from the grill and call 911 immediately.

“The most common injuries we see involving grills are thermal burns,” says Orange County Fire Rescue Assistant Fire Marshal Inez Pressler. “Our goal is to prevent emergencies. We want people to enjoy the holiday with their family and friends, but we also want them to be safe.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association, seven out of every 10 adults in the U.S. have a grill or smoker. Outdoor grilling is a popular way to cook food, but it’s important that safe grilling practices are used when barbecuing.

For more information on grilling safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association.