As Memorial Day weekend kicks off barbecue season, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York is offering tips to avoid accidents and injuries when using outdoor grills, whether propane or charcoal.
The National Fire Protection Association reports that an average of 19,700 patients annually went to emergency rooms with injuries involving grills from 2014 to 2018, with nearly half of those injuries caused by fire or contact with hot objects. Children under age 5 accounted for an average of 2,000, or 39 percent, of the contact-type burns per year. And the association says grills were involved in 8,900 home fires per year, including 3,900 structure fires and 4,900 outdoor fires.
Grills should be kept away from where foot traffic will be, as grill burns typically occur when someone bumps into, touches or falls on the grill, grill parts or hot coals. It is also extremely important to keep grills away from a house, deck railings, overhanging branches and eaves, and flammable objects, FASNY says.
NFPA and FASNY advise keeping grills clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill, never leaving a grill unattended and always making sure a gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
“We want all New Yorkers to enjoy the warm weather outdoors, but we also want them to be safe. Keep an eye on your grill, your kids, and stay aware of your surroundings,” FASNY President John P. Farrell said. “We are here to help — no matter how big or small an incident seems. Don’t hesitate to call your local fire department because a few minutes can make a big difference.”
Staff Writer on May 26, 2022