Propane Grill Flash Fire Burns Resident, Deck

Layhill, MD — A flash fire from a propane grill burned a homeowner and damaged a home's deck Saturday, according to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services.

The fire was reported about 4 p.m. in the 2300 block of North Gate Terrace in the Layhill area.

All occupants were safely out of the house when firefighters arrived, although one resident suffered minor burns that required treatment at an area hospital.

Firefighters let the venting propane tank burn and held it in check, before containing the fire to the deck with no fire in the home.

The homeowner said a new propane cylinder had been installed on the grill earlier that day. After lighting the grill, the occupant heard a slight hissing noise in the area of the propane cylinder and was checking the fitting of the hose to the cylinder when a flash fire occurred.

About 45 firefighters were called to the scene.

Damages were estimated to be $500 total to the grill and deck. A contributing factor in the fire not spreading to the home was the fact the occupant placed the propane grill away from house.

Montgomery County fire officials recommend that residents place grills well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

More safe grilling tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
• Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets far away from grills: declare a three-foot "safe zone" around the grill.
• No grilling allowed on apartment or condo balconies!
• With charcoal grills, only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit. NEVER use gasoline!
• With gas grills, be sure that the hose connection is tight and check hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
• All propane cylinders manufactured after April 2002 must have overfill protection devices that shut off the flow off propane before capacity is reached. OPDS are easily identified by their triangle-shaped hand wheel.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and have the grill repaired by a professional, if necessary.
• Remember to keep your grill clean. Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.
• Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto grill and catch fire.
• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces, such as tents, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.

»Photo of Layhill deck fire courtesy of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services