Keep backyard cookouts safe

Burn burgers, not homes.

That’s the message from fire officials as people roll out barbecues.

Memorial Day, which for many people marks the beginning of the summer, is a traditional time for a backyard cookout.

Burgers, hotdogs and chicken legs may taste a bit better when grilled outside but fire officials caution that charcoal and propane grills can be dangerous when not used properly.

“We want to make sure people realize they need to be careful,” said Deputy State Fire Marshal Esther Hernandez.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 12 people die nationally each year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning from charcoal grills used indoors.

Nationwide, nearly 5,000 people were admitted to emergency rooms in 2006 with injuries from backyard grills, said Patty Davis, a commission spokeswoman.

Local fire officials suggest combining caution with common sense when grilling.

Every year the Everett Fire Department responds to barbecue-related structure fires, assistant fire marshal Rick Robinson said.

Most problems are caused by improper disposal of charcoal ashes or combustible material left too close to the grill, he said.

To avoid trouble, dispose of briquettes when they are completely extinguished and cool, he said. Also, make certain you grill a safe distance away from anything that could catch fire.

Propane grills with old, clogged or broken tubing also can cause problems, Snohomish County Fire Marshal Tom Maloney said.

“Newer grills are built more safely,” he said.

Closely watch grills and don’t leave them unattended, especially with children around, Maloney said.

And don’t hesitate to get help if the situation gets out of control.

“If there is a problem with your grill – gas leaks or fire – call 911,” he said.

Reporter Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3437 or jholtz@heraldnet.com.

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