Backyard Fire Safety | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Summertime might just be the sweetest time. Sioux Falls is bursting with lush greenery and bright flowers, while the temperatures remain mild. Summer is also the best time to get out in the backyard and throw some burgers on the grill.
While there might not be anything better than flame-kissed meat straight off the grill, backyard grilling can become dangerous quickly. Improper use of grills is a leading cause of house fires in the summer. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls wants to make sure you can enjoy every moment this season has to offer without a single worry.
In order to grill safely, you need to pick a good spot to set up. Grills should be in an open, outdoor space only, free from overhangs or any overhead combustible materials. That means that even on one of the chilly nights Sioux Falls weather might serve up you shouldn’t move your grill into the garage.
Whatever open space you choose should have a 10-foot radius around it free from structures, low-hanging tree limbs or anything else that could catch fire from sparks. Teach your kids and your pets that this space is a no-play area to keep them safe from potential burns or other accidents.
If you opt for a charcoal grill, make sure to clean it after every use. Remove any ashes or other buildup, and check the body of the grill for holes, dents or signs of wear and tear. For propane or other gas fueled grills, check connections and gas hoses. Make sure nothing is loose and there are no visible holes or signs of holes. A small leak can result in a devastating situation.
Once you have your setup and have cleaned your grill, take the time to make sure you have all the necessary supplies before turning it on or lighting it up. Keep a squirt bottle of water at hand for flames that jump too high, and hook up your garden hose or put a fire extinguisher somewhere you can grab it quickly if things do get out of hand.
Don’t leave the grill as soon as the food is done either. While you certainly deserve some applause for your hard work, you need to get everything turned off and start the cooling process. Turn off the gas and any burners, or close off vents in order to stop the flow of oxygen and smother the flames.
Create a habit of cleaning out the ashes as soon as you are able. Flames can start back with little heat, so it’s best to remove them from the heat source quickly. Dispose of them in a metal container, and make sure you check the grill before heading to bed to make sure it has cooled down thoroughly.
You deserve to enjoy the best of the mild and sunny winter Sioux Falls provide. Take the time to create a safe grilling space so you can flip burgers and dogs all season. If things do get out of control, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for fast restoration, day or night.
Don’t let fire damage linger in your home. Call us at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for a fast restoration.