Deck Safety: Grills and Fire Safety

Hot charcoal can ruin your deck. Make sure you are using your grill correctly.

Hot charcoal can ruin your deck. Make sure you are using your grill correctly.

It’s critical to be educated in fire safety before you entertain guests at your next deck party.

According to the United State Fire Administration (USFA), in 2012, there were an estimated 5,700 grill fires on residential properties. Knowing how to set your deck up for safety can prevent a disastrous accident from occurring. Here are some tips that will help improve the fire safety of your deck.

Grills

Decks and grills go hand in hand; you pretty much can’t have one without the other. Before you fire up the grill, take these tips into consideration:

  • Make sure your grill is a safe distance away from siding, railings, soffits, and overhanging branches.
  • Designate a spot where the grill is out of the way of foot traffic.
  • Teach children about a “safe zone” away from the grill.
  • Empty the grease trap. Hot grills can ignite it at any time.
  • Use a flame retardant matte under and around the grill.

As always, you should have a fire extinguisher on hand for any accidents, and always follow all manufactures’ instructions. If you are using a charcoal grill, and it gets knocked over DO NOT PICK UP THE CHARCOAL WITH YOUR HANDS! Charcoal is designed be burn at 600ºF for about an hour and in some cases the coals can reach up to 1000ºF.

Fire Pits

Fire pits are a great way to enjoy summer nights. However, the increasing popularity of these over the years has also raised concerns. When used properly a fire pit can be the perfect addition to your outdoor space.

  •  Keep flammable materials and fluids away from the fire.
  • Do not attempt to relight a fire with any flammable liquids.
  • Teach children about fire safety, and encourage them not to play around open flames.
  • Only use approved materials in fire pits. Items such as paper, leaves, or soft woods like pine and cedar can pop and throw sparks.

Just like with a grill, make sure you have a fire extinguisher on hand, and follow all manufactures’ instructions. If a fire is started and gets out of hand, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PUT IT OUT. Call the fire department immediately and get everyone off the deck and away from the fire. Do not attempt to retrieve any items from your deck. Safety is the most important.

 

 

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