STATE FIRE MARSHAL OFFERS GRILLING SAFETY TIPS
STATEWIDE (June 11, 2020) – As the summer months unfold before us, families across
Maryland continue to venture outside to the beach, the mountains or maybe just to their
backyard. Increased outdoor activities also result in an increase of outdoor fire risks; therefore
the Office of the State Fire Marshal is providing a few common-sense tips that will help
Marylanders enjoy a safe grilling season.
Outdoor Cooking Safety Tips for Gas Grills:
* Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders should always be transported in the upright
position on the floor of the vehicle with all windows open. Never transport cylinders in
the trunk of a car. Remove the cylinder from the vehicle as soon as possible.
* Ensure all connections are tight. Check all connections with soapy water. The
appearance of bubbles indicates leaks, re-tighten leaking connections.
* Make sure grease is not allowed to drip onto the hose or gas cylinder.
* Store the cylinder (including those attached to barbecues), outdoors in a shaded, cool area
out of direct sunlight.
* Read thoroughly and follow manufacturer’s instructions for gas grill use. Save the
instructions for later reference!
Outdoor Cooking Safety Tips for Charcoal Grills:
* Use only a small amount of charcoal starter fuel. A little goes a long way! Consider using
charcoal that does not require starter fuel for ignition.
* Once a fire has been started, never add more starter fuel! Fire can easily follow the
stream of fluid back to the container causing an explosion and potential serious bodily
harm.
* Use great caution in disposing of ashes. Ashes may contain live coals that can start a fire
if not disposed of properly. The safest method is to wet the ashes thoroughly with water
before emptying the barbecue. Only transport ashes in a metal container.
Please be reminded that other than one and two family dwellings, no use or storage
of hibachis, grills or other similar devices used for cooking shall be located on any
balcony, under any overhanging portion or within fifteen feet of any structure.
With any outdoor cooking equipment, never be tempted to use them inside – not even in
a garage with the door open or on a porch or a balcony. “Outdoor grills produce carbon
monoxide, an odorless, colorless, and poisonous gas which, even in small quantities can cause injury or death. LPG cylinders that develop a leak indoors can cause an explosion with
devastating results,” stated State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci
 Stock Photo - Grill Safety
 Stock Photo - Grill Safety
The
Office of the State Fire Marshal is an agency of the Department of
State Police dedicated to helping protect citizens from fire and
explosion through a comprehensive program of education,
inspection, investigation and fire protection engineering. For more
information on fire safety call 1-800-525-3124, log onto our website at: Maryland State Fire Marshal and/or our Facebook Page.
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