Borr, Jessika Finance Office Administrative Assistant | Diocese of Bismarck
Borr, Jessika Finance Office Administrative Assistant | Diocese of Bismarck
The Bismarck Fire Department has issued safety guidelines for outdoor grilling, emphasizing the importance of proper grill placement and maintenance to prevent fires. The department highlights data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that identifies July as the peak month for grill fires, accounting for 15% of incidents. This is followed by June with 14%, May with 13%, and August with 12%.
The NFPA's statistics from 2019-2023 reveal that one-fifth of grill fires were linked to unclean grills. More than a quarter of these fires originated on exterior balconies or open porches, while others began when an outside wall or structural framing caught fire. Gas grills were implicated in an average of 9,287 home fires annually during this period.
Additionally, data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that between 2020 and 2024, approximately 21,682 people per year visited emergency rooms due to grill-related injuries.
To ensure safe grilling practices, the Bismarck Fire Department advises checking propane gas tanks for leaks before use. It is recommended to keep grills clean by removing grease buildup and positioning them away from homes and flammable structures. Gas grill lids should be open before lighting, and children and pets should be kept at least three feet away from grilling areas.
For charcoal grills, only charcoal starter fluid should be used. Users are cautioned against adding any other flammable liquids to the fire. Coals should cool completely before disposal in a metal container after grilling is finished.
Finally, it is crucial never to leave a grill unattended while in use.
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