We are just weeks away from warmer weather and gathering outside with family and friends around a fire pit! It’s exciting to get back to being outside and enjoying time with others, but first, let’s ensure your firepit and grill are cleaned appropriately and are safe for use! Firepits and grills each have their own safety requirements, and this American Restoration Water & Fire recommends the following checklist before firing anything up.
Firepit Safety
How to clean your Firepit:
- Before the season starts, ensure that the previous year’s ashes and debris are cleaned out and in a trash bag for safe removal.
- Clean the firepit with soap and water, and then dry thoroughly.
- Clear debris around the fire pit and ensure a safe walking path to and from the firepit safely.
How to Safely use your Firepit:
- Before using your firepit, check the wind direction too, to ensure your family and friends, yard, and home are safe! New Mexico winds can kick up at any moment!
- Do not use fuels such as gasoline, lighter fluid, kerosene, or charcoal lighter fluid. Look up the instructions for your firepit and how safely light it.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose close by.
- Keep children away from it when in use and make sure that no one is wearing loose clothing around an open flame.
Grilling Safety
How to clean your Grill:
Your grill should be cleaned at least two times a year, depending on how often it is used and the amount of buildup; checking the chutes of your gas grill or the grates and bottom of your charcoal grill.
- Disconnect the propane hose and regulator from the grill.
- Make a baking soda paste by mixing three parts baking soda to one part water. Cover the grilling area, including chutes, with the paste, and spray with vinegar. Let sit for 30 minutes and scrub caked-on areas, then rinse off with the garden hose. Leave the grill open to dry.
- You can turn on the grill after you set up the propane and check that your grill is in proper working order.
Grilling Safety Tips:
- Propane and charcoal grills must be used outdoors only.
- Position the grill three feet from the side of your home, deck railing, and away from overhanging branches or under eaves.
- Grills should be out of walking paths and away from play areas.
- Long-handled grilling utensils should be utilized to prevent burns.
- Charcoal Grill: Never add charcoal starter fluid to already kindling charcoals.
- Charcoal Grill: buy the proper charcoal fluid and keep it out of reach of children.
It is estimated that an average of 5,700 grill fires a year will occur on residential properties within the United States. Fires can start and spread even when you take every precaution, which is why American Restoration Water & Fire is prepared for an immediate response when fire or smoke damage affects your property. Our technicians have been certified by The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration in fire damage cases. Put your trust in American Restoration Water & Fire, and we will work tirelessly to get you and your family back into your home.
