Shelton Fire Chief: Safe Summer Cooking Tips

Location, location, location: that's the key to summer grilling safety, says Assistant Fire Chief Ted Pisciotta, who specializes in fire prevention.

"Spring and summertime present the return of several seasonal fire hazards with activities shifting outdoors.  Among the most common involve cooking grills, wooden decks, and use of gasoline and other flammable liquids," he said.

Specifically, Pisciotta advises:
 
•        Locate grills and any propane tanks/cylinders a safe distance from buildings, wooden decks and other combustibles. Never store propane indoors 

 •        Check propane gas hose connection is tight and check hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.  

•        Inspect and clean of venturi tubes and burner (check owner’s manual) of gas grills where spiders and small insects may make nests or spider webs. This could lead to a fire. Frequent inspection and cleaning is typically necessary before use.  

•        Only use charcoal starter fluids designed for grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit.    

•        Eliminate dry leaves, combustible storage or other debris from beneath wood decks. Avoid staging trash and other combustible materials on the deck.  

•        Avoid smoking on a wood deck. If you permit smoking, use suitable disposal containers/ashtrays.  Never use paper or plastic cups, napkins etc.  

•        Store gasoline and other flammable liquids in a building separate from the house or place of residence, such as a secured shed. Never store such liquids or propane cylinders within and attached garage or basement! Always keep out of reach from children.  

•        Use gasoline only for its intended purpose, as a motor fuel. Handle gasoline outdoors only.

Finally, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times.
Know when and how to call “911” for help.  And remember to practice your home escape plan.      
For more information, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau at 924-1555 or on the web under “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org.