QBeth

There's a post about someone just getting a new deck and how she hopes to be able to enjoy it, BBQing and all. I sent her the warning below, not to be a party pooper, but to relay information about BBQs and fire codes that I never knew. Maybe this information may keep someone from harm so I'm reposting it here under a proper title. Be safe this summer!!

We've had several serious fires in New England that were caused by BBQs being used on decks; most fire codes specify that BBQs should be used only on an inflamable surface, not on a deck. Who knew?! And, how many of us have do this all the time?

The scariest case happened to someone here in work. She and her family had just finished BBQing and were inside eating. A few minutes into the meal, something caught their attention (noise, smoke, light from the flames??). When they checked outside, the whole back of the house was in flames!! The scary part is their 18 month old was upstairs taking a nap.

The father rushed upstairs as everyone else headed outside. When he got to the bedroom, the baby was standing up in the crib, looking out the window, watching the flames. __:-(__ OMG! He grabbed the kid and, just as he was heading downstairs, the BBQ propane tank blew, completely engulfing the back side of the house, including the baby's room!

One might think this is an isolated case but we've had at least two more fires caused by BBQs in New England. I don't know if the really hot weather is aggravating the situation but thought I'd pass along the warning.

Be careful everyone!

KGoodhand

Good to know! I would have never thought of it being a problem but it does make sense especially with how hot and dry it has been lately! (atleast around here!)

sewcrafty

Never gave that any thought. That's where my grill is, right outside the slider.

dsb38327

Thank you for caring and keeping us alert.

Grama Lehr

Gosh! I never thought about it. . . . .
Thank Goodness, we have a concrete patio! :roll:

ktbb

and why not have a small fire extinguisher next to the grill as a standard part of BBQ tools...even give one as a gift to those who do a lot of grilling. A little non-traditional but...

Sadiemae

That is scary. Mine is close to the house, but on cement. Maybe should move it anyway.

QBeth

I believe one of the fires was fueled by being too close to a house with siding, something that will melt anyways if the BBQ is too close. What freaks me out about it how many have ocurred during the last couple of weeks.

Ditter43

That is scary...thanks for the heads up! I think a fire extinguisher is a fantastic idea! :thumbup:

Pam Pollock

I thought when we finished our cedar deck that we would be able to barbeque on it & DH said that it wasn't a good idea because of it being so flammable. We keep our BBQ in our shop & roll it out the front door of the shop when we BBQ. It is a little less convenient, but lots safer. :-D