Grilling Tips for a Safe Memorial Day

LANSING, MI — As we celebrate and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country on Memorial Day weekend, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and Bureau of Fire Services (BFS), encourages Michiganders to be safe as they gather with family and friends, especially if gatherings involve grilling.

“Before firing up the grill, we want you to follow a few simple safety precautions to avoid serious injuries and fires,” said BFS Deputy Director Joe Forro. “Most grill fires are caused by malfunctioning gas grills, maintenance and grill part replacement is critical to protect yourself and your family.”

Before you light up the grill, remember:

• Always grill outdoors. Never grill indoors or in the garage, as this could be a carbon monoxide risk.
• Grill on a level surface at least 10 feet away from your house, garage and not below overhanging eaves. Keep grills at least three feet from railings, fencing or privacy screens, branches, hanging baskets and backyard furniture.
• Never use a grill on a balcony.
• Keep children and pets well away from the grill area.
• Never leave your grill unattended.  
• Don’t overload the grill with food. Excess fat and grease dripping on flames can ignite significant flare-ups.
• Clean your grill often, removing grease and fat buildup from the grates and in the trays below.
• Never fight a fire yourself. Call 911 and let the firefighters do their job.

Gas grill safety

• Check gas tank hoses for gas leaks before each year's first use. 
• If you detect a leak, immediately turn off the tank's gas valve and don’t use the grill until serviced by a professional.
• Before filling a liquid propane cylinder, check it for dents or gouges. Don’t overfill the cylinder.
• Never turn on the gas when the lid is closed. Propane may build up inside, and when ignited, the lid could blow off, or a fireball could explode in your face.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately turn off the gas valve on the tank.
• Never store propane gas cylinders in buildings or garages. If you store a gas grill inside during the winter, disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside.
• When finished with the grill, turn off the burners and close the propane cylinder valve.

Charcoal grill safety

• Use only charcoal starter fluid (never gasoline or kerosene) to light the grill.  
• If using an electric charcoal starter, use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• Always use charcoal grills outside in a well-ventilated area. Charcoal briquettes give off deadly carbon monoxide gas.
• Let the coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container, or soak partially cooled ashes in water before disposal.

LARA and BFS wish all Michiganders a safe Memorial Day Weekend. We honor and thank the fallen who courageously gave their lives while serving their country.

For more information on fire and carbon monoxide safety, please visit www.miprevention.org or follow MI Prevention on social media