Haddam Fire Recommends Summer Fire Prevention Safety Tips

In all areas of our summer activities, the urges that safety be of utmost concern.

Grilling is one of the most popular ways to cook food.  But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard.  Please follow these simple tips to reduce the risk, and help you enjoy safe grilling.  All grills should be used only outdoors.  A recent call for a possible structure fire by a concerned neighbor turned out to be a person grilling inside their enclosed second story porch.  While there was no fire, the smoke produced and heat generated could easily have done damage to the house, not to mention the full response of the Fire Company when not needed.  Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill area.  The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.  Make sure it is kept clean of grease and never leave the grill unattended.  Check your propane grill for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose and regulator.  Any bubbles produced while the tank is turned on briefly indicate a leak, and the unit should not be used until serviced.  A propane tank fire is a very high risk – should the tanks explode, the force is similar to a small bomb.

If you smell the scent of the gas at any point, get away from the grill and call 911.  The NFPA reports that July is the peak month for grill fires, and that more than half of home grill structure fires begin either on the patio, extended balcony, or open porch. 

When grilling with charcoal, be sure to carefully handle lighter fluid.  Never add fluid to a smoldering fire as flames can travel back to the can and create an explosion.  Fully soak coals and ash before discarding – follow all of the same precautions as removing ash from a wood stove.  Don’t let another fire like the one in Stamford on Christmas morning occur.

Consumer fireworks are a large source of injuries and fires.  While seemingly simple and safe, sparklers are designed to throw off showers of hot sparks where temperatures can exceed 1,200 degrees, enough to cause 3rd degree burns.  In 2010, NFPA reports that there were an estimated 15,500 reported fires caused by fireworks.  This includes 1,100 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and estimates 60 significant injuries and 8 deaths. 

Public fireworks displays must follow very strict rules, and as such are very safe.  There are numerous events in our area that allow everyone to view great shows and avoid the risk of fires and injury.

Enjoy the summer season safely.  For more information on fire safety, visit www.NFPA.org.

More information on the activities of the Haddam Volunteer Fire Co. and ways you can get involved can be found on our website – www.HaddamFire.com.  

Submitted by Bob Norton, Haddam Volunteer Fire Company Public Relations Liaison