River Edge Fire Dept reports rise in grill fires; congressman suggests safety plan

RIVER EDGE, N.J. (PIX11) — The River Edge Fire Department’s volunteers have had a lot on their plate this year, especially in the summer.

The department has seen an overall uptick in fire calls, including more calls for grill-related fires than in the last two years combined.

“Maybe people are just out there cooking more,” said Chief Robert Schlossberg. “A lot of times, a homeowner likes to keep the grill running after they’re finished cooking to burn off any excess on the grill. We recommend you don’t do that.”

On Monday, Congressman Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., visited River Edge’s Memorial Park to outline a three-part plan to promote grill safety.

“There’s nothing partisan about grill safety,” said Gottheimer.

First, he’s introducing what he calls the Safe Grilling Act, federal legislation to support a nationwide public grilling safety awareness campaign. Next, he will write a letter to the FDA asking them to update guidance on food safety. Finally, he’ll ask the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association to keep updating its guidance on grilling best practices and have firefighters share them with their communities.

“We all love grilling. Let’s just do it safely,” said Gottheimer.

Officials recommend cleaning your grill with a cleaning tool after every use. They also recommend checking your grill for gas leaks by making sure the hoses are hooked up properly and regularly cleaning your grease pans. Even if you’re taking great care of your grill, dangers could still lurk if you’re not grilling your food the right way. Doctors remind you not to put your family’s health at risk.

“Make sure any meats that you’re using are properly thawed, make sure you’re checking temperatures with a thermometer, make sure the food is properly cooked,” said Dr. Gian Varbaro, Chief Medical Officer of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. “Also, make sure you’re not cross-contaminating different foods, poultry and meat in particular.”

Firefighters are hoping the community will turn down the heat on grill fires.

“We just want the residents to be safe and if you’re going to cook, cook safely and keep your grill away from your home,” said Schlossberg.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 22,000 people visit an emergency room for grill-related injuries.

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