The accidental fire that destroyed a house in Shelburne last week was the result of a barbeque grill located too close to the building and left many in Town concerned and uncertain as to the safety of their grill location. As we enter the summer months that are so conducive to outdoor cooking, it is of vital importance to follow the recommendations of the State Fire Marshall and Dept. of Public Safety for the safe use and placement of outdoor grills.

The use and storage of solid fuel or propane cooking equipment on patios and balconies has resulted in a number of major fires in the state of Vermont. As with other types of cooking devices, the leading causes of structure fires involving charcoal fueled grills are unattended cooking or placing combustibles too close to heat. Most commonly, the exterior trim and wall coverings are the first items ignited in structure fires. The leading cause of gas grill fires is attributed to failure of the equipment or breaks in the gas lines of the equipment.
Before firing up the grill, there are several safety precautions and fire code requirements to keep in mind. By following these guidelines, you'll help prevent possible gas explosions or fires.

Here are a few tips that can help make barbecuing safer:
• Charcoal briquettes should be stored in a dry area because damp or wet charcoal is sensitive to spontaneous heating.

• The use and storage of barbecue grills should be restricted to the out-of-doors. Never use barbecue grills for home heating or indoor cooking.

• Charcoal briquettes should be allowed to cool naturally a safe distance from structures and combustible materials and then properly disposed of.

• Charcoal lighter fluid should be properly stored, away from living areas of the home.

•Propane cylinders should be stored outside at least 20 feet from building openings such as windows and doors.

• Check grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes, and leaks. Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or tubing.

• Never bring the propane tank into the house. Store cylinders and grills with cylinders attached in a shaded, cool area out of direct sunlight.

• Charcoal and gas grills are sources of carbon monoxide (CO). CO fumes are odorless and can quickly overwhelm you in an enclosed space.

• Use only LP containers equipped with an Overfill Protection Device.

Anytime you are dealing with a force as explosive as several sticks of dynamite, caution must be taken; the propane cylinders that are used to fuel gas grills are this explosive.

For your own safety, take the time to learn how to handle them safely.