pToday at 529PM the USRFD was dispatched to a reported grill fire on Oak Drive. Chief Schianchi was nearby responded and arrived on scene moments later. He found a natural gas grill in close proximity to the home that had been on firenbspspan classtextexposedshow styledisplay inline and extinguished by the homeowner prior to FD arrival. Engine 1232 with OIC Captain Vierheilig responded minutes later and the crew disconnected the grill and checked the house for extension. The homeowner advised the crew that the food had been left unattended and the flames were as high as 15 feet causing the plastic soffit above to melt slightly. After a through check of the residence the crew returned to the apparatus. Tanker 1233 was also on scene for support.nbspbrbrGrilling TipsbrbrPropane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.brThe grill should be placed well away from the home deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.brKeep children and pets away from the grill area.brKeep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.brNever leave your grill unattended.spanppspan classtextexposedshow styledisplay inline Always remember to turn off the grill immediately after you are done cooking.brbrCharcoal grillsbrbrThere are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use.brbrCharcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.brIf you use a starter fluid use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.brKeep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.brThere are also electric charcoal starters which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.brWhen you are finished grilling let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.brbrPropane grillsbrbrCheck the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak by smell or the soapy bubble test and there is no flame turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.brbr National Fire Protection Association 2013brbrPhoto courtesy of NBCNews.comspanppp
