Summer Fire Message…Stay Safe this Summer!

Cooking outdoors is a summer staple for many Oregonians, but if proper precautions aren’t taken serious problems can occur. From 2006 to 2010 thre were 207 grill-related fires in Oregon, resulting in seven injuries and $3 million in property loss. Familiarize yourself with this information to ensure that your summer cookouts result in only fun and good food, not expensive damages or injuries to loved ones.

Propane and charcoal grills can only be used outdoors and in an open space. Using them indoors will expose you and your family to deadly gas, and any enclosed space (such as your garage) poses a fire hazard. They should stay away from home siding, deck railings, under eaves, and overhanging branches. Keep them a safe distance away from play areas and foot traffic.

Declare a “three foot safety zone” around your outdoor grill. Make sure children understand they must stay out of it, and keep an eye on wandering pets.

Remove grease and/or fat build-up in the trays below the grill. If it stays there, it could be ignited by a hot grill.

For propane grills: Make sure to check the propane cylinder hose for leaks (if you use a light soap and water solution in the hose, you will be able to spot leaks with the escaping bubbles).

For charcoal grills: Only proper start up fluid should be used. Make sure it is always out of reach of children and stored away from any heat sources.

Dispose of ash properly. Always soak them in water and place in a nonflammable container (even if they appear to be cooled off).

With the weather getting warm during the day and cooling off, many people are relaxing outdoors and trying to find ways to stay warm.Remember, backyard burning is not legal in the City of Portland. Please make sure your friends, families, and neighbors are aware of this. If you witness backyard burning and are uncomfortable telling the person to stop, call 9-1-1 and say that you wish to report an illegal burn.

 Portland Fire & Rescue

 We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

 July 11, 2011

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