Make This Your Best Barbeque Season

The onset of the recent warmer weather signals the beginning of summer, long days, and of course Tennessee barbeque season!

Here at Alder & Cox Insurance, we want you and your loved ones to enjoy this season SAFELY!

Grilling Safety

According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, three out of four households in the United States own a barbeque grill. Chances are, you will encounter lighting a charcoal or gas grill this barbeque season. And when you do, it's important to remember that sweet barbeque is a safe one!

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says, charcoal and gas grills cause an average of 1,500 structure fires and 4,200 outdoor fires in or on residential properties each year. That's about $29.8 million direct property loss.

Make Fire Safety a Priority

Protection can be relatively simple and inexpensive. To help prevent fire-related injuries and damage to your home this summer:

• Only use your barbeque grill outside. Grills are not designed to be used in a house, a garage, or other indoor area. You and your family can be poisoned by carbon monoxide build-up, so stick to grilling outside.
• Set-up a grill in an open area away from buildings, overhead combustible surfaces and dry leaves or brush. Stay away from high traffic areas and always grill in a well-ventilated area. Be aware of wind blown sparks.
• Always read the owners manual before using the grill.
• Keep a multipurpose fire extinguisher within easy reach.
• Use flame retardant mitts and wear clothing that does not have hanging sleeves or apron strings.
• Never leave a hot grill unattended.
• Avoid burns and splatters by using long-handled utensils.
• Never try to move a hot grill.
• If using a charcoal grill, never use gasoline in place of charcoal lighter fluid. And never reapply charcoal lighter fluid after the fire has started; the flames can ignite the vapors, and travel up to the can causing an explosion.
• Always keep propane gas containers upright and never store spare containers or flammable liquids indoors or near the grill.
• To avoid accidents while transporting propane gas containers, consumers should transport the container in a secure, upright position. Never keep a filled container in a vehicle. Heat will cause the gas pressure to increase, and could open the relief valve and allow gas to escape.
• Use extreme caution and always follow manufacturer's instructions when connecting or disconnecting propane gas containers.

For information about how to make this year your best barbeque season, check out the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association.