Remember these safety tips when grilling this summer

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – July 4th weekend is a time for backyard barbeques. Of course, there are important safety measures to take to avoid any grill-related accidents.

While the patriotic spirit is carrying on through the holiday weekend, so is backyard barbecuing. Many people will still be grilling over the weekend, but not without acknowledging safety concerns.

The American Medical Response warns that grill fires can ignite instantly, leading to devastating property damage, serious injury, or death. According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments respond to an average of over 11,000 home fires each year involving grills. On average, grill fires cause two deaths, 176 injuries and $172 million in property damage each year.

“You’ll hear about it once or twice a year that somebody had some kind of a fire or again, wasn’t paying attention and it flared up and there was an issue,” said John Wojcik of Springfield.

Rocky’s Store Manager Dawn Kwasnik says it’s important to properly clean your grill and avoid using it close to your home or over hanging trees, “Making sure that their grills are clean first and foremost. Making sure that their grills are far enough away from their houses, porches, and overhanging trees. Keeping pets and kids away from them so they don’t run into them with the heat on them. Using proper lighter fluid that’s made for grilling.”

The AMR also encourages grill users to follow model-specific manufacturer instructions. Check for propane leaks if you use a gas grill, keep grills at least ten feet away from any structures, do not grill on a covered patio or in your garage, do not leave grills unattended, and keep children and pets at least three feet away.

Kwasnik also added that Rocky’s is happy to assist any customers looking for the right type of grill cleaning materials. For now, stay aware while operating the grill to ensure a happy Fourth of July weekend barbeque.

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