Gas Grill Safety

    Every summer we answer dozens of calls from residents of North Haven needing assistance in propane grill-related incidents.  Typically, grease builds up, gas leaks or fire catches where it isn't supposed to.

    To try and help prevent such incidents from occurring the North Haven Professional Firefighters Association holds a gas grill safety day at the beginning of each summer. This year we held it on May 27th.  We had a cook out at Fire Headquarters for the residents of North Haven and demonstrated grill safety.   On this day Shoreline Compressed Gas supplied us with a  grill and tank to show what to look for when inspecting your own grill at the beginning of the summer season.

    Most grill-related hazards can be prevented with a thorough annual check-up.  Most importantly, follow all manufacturers' directions for assembly and operation.  turn off the gas, disassemble the grill, and check valves and hoses for cracks or blockage.  Clean out with pipe cleaners.   Scrub lava rocks with soap and water to remove grease.

    Then reassemble the grill and paint the tank, seams and hoses with a solution of two teaspoons of soap and one pint of water.   Turn the gas on and watch for tiny bubbles.  Hopefully there will be none.   Bubbles indicate a leak, and leaky parts must be replaced.

    If a fire does break out around the barbecue, try not to panic.   Try to remember to close the grill cover and turn off the gas immediately.  If you need help, call 911.  Don't think twice about it - That's what we're here for.

    The North Haven Professional Firefighters Association also has a Top 10 Dos and Don'ts for your Propane Grill safety brochure produced.  Anyone interested in obtaining one of these safety brochures, free of charge, may do so by stopping by Fire Headquarters, at 11 Broadway, during normal business hours.