With the first long weekend of the summer here, the St. John’s Regional Fire Department (SJRFD) would like to remind residents of some fire safety tips to help their holiday weekend be safe from fire.

Grilling Safety

• Keep a 1 metre radius clear around your grill. Designate this as a no play zone for children and pets.
• Before grilling, position your grill away from the house, deck railing, overhanging eaves, or tree branches. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to see what the minimum distances are. If you don’t have the instructions, look them up online.
• Propane and charcoal grills are for outdoor use only. If used inside, they could expose your family to toxic carbon monoxide as well as posing a serious fire risk.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing while grilling. If your clothes do catch on fire, remember to Stop, Drop, and Roll.
• Always use long handled grilling tools so your hand stays far away from the flame.
• Never leave a lit grill unattended.

Charcoal Grills

• Only use proper starter fluid on your charcoal grill and store it out of the reach of children.
• Never add lighter fluid to hot coals.
• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children and teach them to tell an adult if they see matches or lighters.
• Properly dispose of hot coals by dousing them in water and stirring to ensure that the fire is completely out. Always use a metal container to dispose of coals or ashes.

Propane Grills

• Always check the connection between the propane tanks and the fuel line.
• Make sure the tubes are not blocked and that the hose is not leaking.
• To check for leaks, apply a light soap and water mixture to the hose. If bubbles start to form, you have a leak. If this happens and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and the grill and do not use it again until your grill is serviced by a professional.
• If the leak does not stop after turning the tank off, call the fire department.
• If you smell gas while cooking, move away from the grill immediately and call the fire department; do not try to move the grill.

Backyard Fire Safety

• Keep a safe distance: Position outdoor wood burning appliances at least 4.5 metres away from your house, fences, sheds, or any other structures or combustible materials. Check with your Municipality for their regulations because each Municipality is different.
• Never leave a fire unattended: Always have someone responsible present to supervise the fire, especially when children or pets are nearby.
• Extinguish completely: Before leaving, ensure the fire is completely out. Pour water on the fire, stir the ashes, and repeat until cool to the touch.
• Use fire-resistant surfaces: Place outdoor wood burning appliances on stable, even, fire-resistant surfaces like concrete, stone, or brick.
• Avoid flammable surfaces: Don't place outdoor wood burning appliances directly on wooden decks without adequate fire-resistant protection.
• Have a water source: Keep a bucket of water, garden hose, other water source, or a fire extinguisher nearby for immediate use in case of an emergency.
• Use a metal screen: Use a metal screen to contain sparks and prevent them from flying out.
• Check for fire bans: Follow any local fire bans or restrictions during periods of high fire danger.
• Be mindful of wind: Avoid starting fires in windy conditions.

Keep fire safety top of mind and don’t ignite a disaster! Have a safe and enjoyable May 24th weekend!