Barbeque Safety

For many homeowners, nothing symbolizes summer quite like getting outside and grilling up some tasty treats on the barbeque. As we dust off our hamburger flippers and prepare for another grilling season, however, it's important to remember that when used or maintained improperly, barbeques can cause serious damage to property and to people. Here are a few simple recommendations to help keep your family safe as you enjoy your barbeque this summer:

Positioning the Grill

• Position your grill a minimum of five feet away from the house and any flammable objects in your yard.
• Make sure your grill is stable and on level ground, so there is no risk of it toppling over.
• Grills or stoves should be situated far enough from the windows and doors so that smoke from cooking will not waft inside. 
• Burning charcoal produces carbon monoxide which is highly toxic, so never burn charcoal in any kind of enclosed area.

Proper Use & Maintenance:

• Check for grease build-up and clean your dripping pan frequently, as excessive grease can cause unexpected flare-ups.  
• If you have a gas grill, remember that propane tanks require sophisticated valve equipment to keep them safe for use. To check your hoses and connections for gas leaks, spray them with soapy water and look for bubbling.
• Remember to close the tank valve when you're finished using it.
• Check for rusted and corroded burners. These parts wear out quickly, but they are easy to replace.
• If your grill bottom has vent holes, be certain that it also has an ashcan to catch hot embers that might fall through onto the surface below.
• Embers and coals should be completely extinguished before disposal. Coals can smolder for hours and can cause fires if thrown away with flammable materials.
• Always store propane tanks outside in a well-ventilated area.

To learn more tips on how to keep your home safe this summer, please contact your local Pillar To Post office.

Chris Livingston
503-682-3053
PortlandWestSide@pillartopost.com
www.pillartopost.com/portlandwestside