JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Now that spring is here, it seems our minds have gotten back to grilling hamburgers, hot dogs and steaks, so remember to use common sense. Keep the grill a minimum of 15 to 20 feet from the house. Don't grill indoors and read the following facts:
In 2003 to 2006, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year, including an average of 2,900 structural fires and 5,000 outside fires. These 7,900 fires caused annual average of 10 civilian deaths, 120 reported injuries and $80 million in direct property damage.
Although gas grills are used roughly 1.5 times as often as charcoal grills, they were involved in five times as many fires. Gas grills were involved in 6,400 home fires, including 2,100 structure fires and 4,300 outdoor fires.
One-third, or 33 percent, of the home structure fires involving grills started on an exterior balcony or unenclosed porch. Eighteen percent started on a courtyard, terrace or patio, and 11 percent started on an exterior wall surface. In 51 percent of the home outdoor fires in which grills were involved, the fire started when a flammable or combustible gas or liquid caught fire.
For any questions, please contact the fire prevention office at 963-3121.
(Facts courtesy of National Fire Protection Association)