AAA wants to remind grillers to be careful when firing up that grill this father’s day

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — With Father’s Day right around the corner on Sunday, June 16, AAA insurance wants to give grillers some important safety tips before firing up the grill this weekend.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 11,400 home grill fires take place on residential properties each year. These fires are most often caused by malfunctioning grills.

With thousands of people each year visiting the emergency room from grill burns, AAA insurance says safety is one of their top concerns.

“Father’s Day and grilling season are great times to enjoy friends, family, food and the outdoors, but accidents can happen,” said David Kirst, Insurance Manager at AAA Western and Central New York. “Before you barbecue, it’s important to take a few minutes to review grilling safety tips and ensure your equipment is working properly.”

Tips to ensure safe barbecuing,

• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease and fat build-up as grease can cause flare-up fires.
• Never grill indoors or in confined areas; charcoal grills produce carbon monoxide fumes that are fatal indoors.
• Place your grill at least 10 feet away from walls and deck railings to prevent fires from igniting buildings.
• Never leave a grill burning unattended.
• If the flame on your grill goes out, turn the grill and gas off. Wait at least 15 minutes before relighting and always make sure your grill lid is open before igniting.

AAA also outlined their best tips to maintain and store a grill.

When setting up at the start of grilling season, check grill hoses for cracks, holes and blockages. Blockages caused by food drippings or insects can be cleared with a wire or pipe cleaner.

When storing a grill, store propane tanks outside and away from your home. Always check to ensure that valves are turned off.

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