New Canaan Fire Marshal Offers Outdoor Cooking Safety Tips

NEW CANAAN, CT — As the Memorial Day holiday weekend approaches and residents prepare to fire up their grills, the New Canaan Fire Marshal's office has provided some safety tips to keep in mind.

According to the Fire Marshal's office's Facebook page, outdoor cooking is a favorite pastime for many but safety is key, as over 10,000 home fires are caused by grills annually.

The following grilling tips were provided by the Fire Marshal's office:

• Use propane and charcoal grills outdoors only.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Keep your grill away from the house, deck railings, and overhanging branches.
• Keep kids and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill.
• Keep your grill clean to prevent grease buildup.
• Always open the gas grill lid before lighting it.

See also: Memorial Day Weekend 2024: Events, Parades Around New Canaan

Charcoal Grill Tips

• Use chimney starters or electric starters.
• Only use charcoal starter fluid, away from children and heat sources.
• Let coals cool completely before disposal.

Propane Grill Tips

• Check for gas leaks annually with a soap and water solution.
• If you smell gas, move away and call the fire department.
• Wait 5 minutes before relighting if the flame goes out.

More information is available here.