BOISE – Like many Idahoans, you may be planning a weekend barbecue with family and friends. AAA shares tips to prevent your cookout from turning into an expensive insurance claim.
“It can be tempting to put your grill right up against the house, especially if you’re looking for some shade from the summer heat,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “As a rule, keep your grill at least 10 feet away from everything – if a fire breaks out, containment is key.”
AAA grilling tips
- Always store the grill and propane tanks away from your home
- Keep the grill and trays clean and free of greasy buildup
- Spray a 50/50 solution of dish soap and water on hoses and connections – bubbles indicate a possible propane leak
- Never grill indoors or in confined spaces
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy that is rated for grease fires. Never use water on a grease fire – in a pinch, baking soda can help extinguish smaller fires
- Never leave a grill unattended
AAA recommends practicing evacuation from your home in the event of a fire. Establish a rendezvous point, plan multiple ways to exit the neighborhood, and consider creating a “go bag” with important medications and other items to tide you over if you have to leave the home. Make sure your house number is clearly visible, both on the building and from the street.
“Please remember to create a defensible space around your home. Dead overhanging tree limbs and dry grass are highly combustible,” Conde said. “Check with your insurance company for recommendations about fire-proofing your house and protecting important belongings.”