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Summer Fire Safety

Media stories can save lives! A news story about a residential fire provides a valuable opportunity to give your community a safety message during a teachable moment. Drop in these prevention tips and facts, and you just might save a life.

All U.S. homes should have working smoke alarms.

Fires can be prevented. A few easy steps can save your life!

Barbecue Grills

• Keep grills at least 10 feet from siding and eaves.
• Never use a grill in a garage or carport.
• Before using a gas grill, check hoses and connections for leaks.
• Check that the venturi tubes-where gas and air mix-are not blocked.
• Never overfill a propane tank.
• Consumers should only use propane tanks that have a three-pronged valve: this is a sign that there is an overfill protection device in the tanks.
• When lighting a charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add fluid after the fire is started.
• To dispose of hot coals, soak them with water and stir to make sure the fire is out.
• Never put coals in plastic, wood, or paper containers.
• Wear snug-fitting clothing when grilling.

Fireworks

• For safety's sake, leave fireworks to the professionals.
• Stay back at least 500 feet from professional fireworks displays.
• If you do use fireworks, light them outdoors, away from dry grass.
• Always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never let children light or play with fireworks.
• Wear snug-fitting clothing while lighting fireworks.

Summer Fire Facts

• Barbecue grills caused about 900 home fires and 3,500 outdoor fires in 2002.
• Half of all grill-related home fires begin on a balcony or unenclosed porch.
• More U.S. fires are reported on the 4th of July than on any other day. Fireworks account for half of those fires.
• In 2004, fireworks started about 1,600 structure fires.
• The tip of a sparkler burns at more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit-hot enough to cause third-degree burns.