Hosting outdoor barbecues is a quintessential part of summer. However, working with a grill does require some best practices to avoid the need for fire damage restoration. To enjoy a safe, enjoyable grilling experience, follow these do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Maintain your grill.

Before you fire up the grill, always check the valves connecting to the propane tank: they should be secure and free of damage. To detect a leak, spray a mixture of water and dish soap onto the hoses, then turn on the gas. If you see bubbles, the hose has a leak, which you should get repaired. Also, clean your grill regularly so flammable grease and fat don’t build up.

Have safety tools handy.

If a fire breaks out, you’ll need safety tools to quench it. Purchase a quality fire extinguisher and learn how to use it. Many local fire services offer classes. You’ll want to have the extinguisher inspected regularly as well. If you can’t control a fire, call 911 immediately and move everyone away from the area. After the blaze is contained, call for a fire damage restoration service.

Don’t:

Place the grill near your home.

Even if your grill is closed, place it at least 10 feet away from your home and landscaping on a concrete floor. Also, don’t hang anything over the grill. If a fire starts, it won’t be able to spread without flammable materials around.

Leave your grill unattended.

Never leave your grill unattended since it only takes seconds for an accident to occur. If you need to step away, have another adult keep watch, and make sure they’re able to reach and use the fire extinguisher. Avoid having children watch the grill since they may not be able to handle emergencies.

If you need fire damage restoration services following a barbecue accident, the professionals at SERVPRO of Kailua North / Laie in Kaneohe, HI, are here to assist. This locally owned and operated company offers a variety of property damage cleanup services, including fire damage restoration, flood cleanup, and mold remediation. Visit their website to explore their services further, or call (808) 235-5015 for 24-hour emergency assistance.