Summer Barbecue Safety Tips

As summer approaches, many people are getting ready for backyard barbecues. Whether you are planning a Fourth of July celebration, or you are looking forward to grilling up some steak with your family, it is important to proceed with caution. More than 7,000 people are injured each year in the United States from grill fires. Our firm wants you to be informed of practical safety tips to reduce the risk of a grill fire or explosion.

In order to increase your safety while barbecuing this summer, you need to:

• Keep the grill at least 10 feet away from your home. You should keep your grill a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures, including your garage, carport, porch, and overhang. A flare up could catch nearby buildings on fire. It is also important to keep decorations a safe distance away from your grill.
• Check for gas leaks. If you have a gas grill, you need to check for gas leaks before every use. A simple way to do this is to mix some dish soap in a bowl of water, and use your hand or a spray bottle to apply the solution on the hoses and connections. Once you turn on the gas, you should not see any soap bubbles. If there are bubbles forming, this is a clear sign of a gas leak, and you need to repair or replace the hoses or connections promptly.
• Have a fire extinguisher and spray bottle of water close by. Small flare ups can easily be handled by using a water spray bottle. This will not harm the food, since the water will simply douse the flames and evaporate quickly. However, it is also important to keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach, and to know how to use it properly.
• Never turn on the gas while the lid is closed. For gas grills, it is necessary to turn on the gas while the lid is open. If you turn the grill on while the lid is shut, the gas will build up inside. Then, when you open the lid, the gas may ignite and cause a dangerous explosion.
• Avoid leaving the grill unattended. Grill fires can happen in an instant, and can grow to double their size every minute. If you go inside and leave the grill unattended, it may be too late to stop a grill fire once you notice it. Planning ahead and preparing all food in advance can allow you to monitor the grill at all times.
• Don’t use a grill indoors. This is another common mistake many people make. Even a small grill could cause a fire, and many grills also release carbon monoxide, which could build up in your home. In order to avoid a fire hazard and lower your risk for carbon monoxide poisoning, you need to always use a grill outdoors.

The Law Office of Robert J. Kaiser Provides Aggressive Representation to Injured Clients

At the Law Office of Robert J. Kaiser, we have more than 2 decades of legal experience. Our Santa Clarita personal injury attorney has guided countless clients to successful legal outcomes. If you have been injured by someone else’s negligence or recklessness, we will help you pursue justice in a personal injury lawsuit.

We offer free consultations to all prospective clients. Call our office today at (661) 441-3446 to discuss your case.