Grill

Gloucester Fire and Building Departments Offer Deck and Grilling Safety Tips

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, June 14, 2019

Media Contact: Kelsey Bode
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Gloucester Fire and Building Departments Offer Deck and Grilling Safety Tips

GLOUCESTER — Chief Eric Smith and Building Commissioner Bill Sanborn would like to remind residents to make sure their decks are structurally sound and their grilling stations adhere to safety protocols this summer.

Decks that are not properly built or maintained can collapse and cause significant injuries, as well as property damage.

“We’re encouraging residents to take a few minutes as summertime approaches to examine their decks and porches,” Sanborn said. “A deck in need of repair poses a significant danger to you and your loved ones, and it’s imperative that these structures are looked after.”

Sanborn has several tips for residents looking to perform a deck safety check:

  • Stand several yards away from your deck to view whether it appears to be uneven, leans away from the building or dips toward one corner.
  • Check the railings and make sure they are sturdy.
  • Check for loose boards on the deck and make sure that all balusters are properly secured.
  • Look for any rotten wood, rusting fasteners, wood joist separating from band joist or broken joists. Check that the blots that hold the deck to the house are tight and secure.
  • Do not overload your deck with furniture, people, sport equipment, etc.
  • If you do not feel comfortable performing the inspection or find that your deck needs repair, contact a construction specialist to answer your questions and make the necessary repairs.

The North American Deck and Railing Association also offers a checklist for deck safety checks.

Chief Smith would also like to remind residents to make sure they’re practicing safe grilling habits this year.

“A lot of people love grilling in the warmer weather, but failure to be vigilant while using your grill or storing it improperly is tremendously dangerous,” Chief Smith said. “Grills can be a serious fire hazard, and we’re asking residents to be responsible.”

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services has several tips for grilling safely in the coming weeks and months:

Safety First

  • Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
  • Place grills away from the house, deck railings and out from under eaves of overhanging branches.
  • Grills should only be used on first floor porches, decks, or patios if there is an outdoor stairway to the ground, or the porch is at ground level.
  • Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grilling area. Children should never play near grills or propane cylinders.

Gas Grill Safety

  • Make sure the lid of a gas grill is open when you light it. Propane can build up inside and when ignited, the lid may blow off.
  • Check that all connections are tight before turning on the gas.
  • Clean the grease trap every time you grill.
  • Check the propane tank hose for potential leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle. See if any bubbles appear around the hose. If no bubbles appear, the grill is safe to use.
  • If you smell gas while cooking, turn the grill off and move away from it. Call 911 from a safe location. Do not move the grill.
  • Store propane cylinders upright in an outdoor, shaded area. Cylinders should not be used, stored or transported where they can be exposed to high temperatures.

Charcoal Grill Safety

  • Use only charcoal starter fluid. Never used gasoline or kerosene to start a fire in a grill and never add lighter fluid to burning briquettes or hot coals.
  • Always use charcoal grills in a well-ventilated area. Charcoal briquettes emit carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
  • Properly dispose of grill ashes. Allow the coals to burn out completely and then cool for 48 hours before disposal. If you must dispose of ashes before they are completely cooled, thoroughly soak them in water before putting them in a metal container.

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Georgetown Fire Department Shares Summer Safety Tips

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Georgetown-MA-Alarm-Installation

Georgetown Fire Department
Fred A. Mitchell Jr., Fire Chief
47 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833

For Immediate Release

Monday, June 10, 2019

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Georgetown Fire Department Shares Summer Safety Tips

GEORGETOWN — With summer on the horizon and spring in full swing, Chief Fred Mitchell and the Georgetown Fire Department wish to remind residents of important warm weather safety tips.  

“It’s grilling season, and as the weather warms up it’ll soon be pool swimming season too,” Chief Mitchell said. “It’s a fun time of year for us all to get outside, but it’s important that everyone remembers to grill responsibly and practice safe swimming habits.”

According to a report issued by the National Fire Protection Association this April, approximately 10,200 home fires nationwide are started each year by grills.

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services has several tips for grilling safely in the coming weeks and months:

Safety First

  • Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
  • Place grills away from the house, deck railings and out from under eaves of overhanging branches.
  • Grills should only be used on first floor porches, decks, or patios if there is an outdoor stairway to the ground, or the porch is at ground level.
  • Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grilling area. Children should never play near grills or propane cylinders.

Gas Grill Safety

  • Make sure the lid of a gas grill is open when you light it. Propane can build up inside and when ignited, the lid may blow off.
  • Check that all connections are tight before turning on the gas.
  • Clean the grease trap every time you grill.
  • Check the propane tank hose for potential leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle. See if any bubbles appear around the hose. If no bubbles appear, the grill is safe to use.
  • If you smell gas while cooking, turn the grill off and move away from it. Call 911 from a safe location. Do not move the grill.
  • Store propane cylinders upright in an outdoor, shaded area. Cylinders should not be used, stored or transported where they can be exposed to high temperatures.

Charcoal Grill Safety

  • Use only charcoal starter fluid. Never used gasoline or kerosene to start a fire in a grill and never add lighter fluid to burning briquettes or hot coals.
  • Always use charcoal grills in a well-ventilated area. Charcoal briquettes emit carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
  • Properly dispose of grill ashes. Allow the coals to burn out completely and then cool for 48 hours before disposal. If you must dispose of ashes before they are completely cooled, thoroughly soak them in water before putting them in a metal container.

Pool Safety:

According to the American Red Cross, 10 people die daily due to unintentional drowning and approximately 20% of those people are under the age of 14. 

Chief Mitchell is also urging residents to take heed of several pool safety tips this summer.

  • Per Massachusetts regulation, pools should be surrounded by a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool and has an access gate that self-closes, locks and opens outward from the swimming area (even if you don’t have children).
    • Fasten a safety cover over the pool when it is not in use, and remove ladders to further prevent access into the pool. Pool alarms are required whenever a house door leads directly to a pool deck.
    • Never leave children unattended while they are in or near a pool, and make sure they have an adult to accompany them into the water. Young or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a life jacket or inflatable arm flotation devices.
    • Make sure children stay away from pool drains, pipes or any other openings to avoid getting trapped or hurt.
    • Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors and anyone else who is near or uses the pool. Advise children to stay away from pool deep ends, and to always walk, never run near the pool.
    • Keep your pool or hot tub water clean and clear. Maintain proper chemical levels, circulation and filtration. Regularly test and adjust the chemical levels to minimize the risk of earaches, rashes or more serious diseases.
    • Never use the pool if the chemical levels are not correct, or if the water is cloudy and you can’t see the bottom.
    • Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.
    • Watch the local weather reports and do not swim if thunderstorms are in the forecast.
    • Those who are 21 and older should drink responsibly if they choose to consume alcoholic beverages when by the pool. Overindulging increases the risk for injuries or accidental drowning.
    • Avoid using glass containers by the pool. They could break and leave glass around the pool or in the water.
  • For a complete listing of Massachusetts building code regulations regarding swimming pools, click here.

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Merrimack Valley Police and Fire Departments Offer Tips and Guidelines for Celebrating The Fourth of July Safely

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Local Police and Fire Departments Offer Tips and Guidelines for Celebrating The Fourth of July Safely

The following is a message from West Newbury Police Chief Arthur Reed, West Newbury Fire Chief Michael Dwyer, Salisbury Police Chief Thomas W. Fowler, Salisbury Fire Chief Richard Souliotis, Newburyport City Marshal Mark Murray, Newburyport Fire Chief Christopher LeClaire, Newbury Police Chief Michael A. Reilly, Newbury Fire Chief Douglas Janvrin, Merrimac Police Chief Eric M. Shears, Merrimac Fire Chief Ralph Spencer, Groveland Police Chief Jeffrey Gillen, Groveland Fire Chief Robert Lab, Georgetown Police Chief Donald C. Cudmore, and Georgetown Fire Chief Fred Mitchell. It is respectfully submitted for publication.

As residents prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday, area public safety agencies are sharing some important reminders and safety tips with the communities they serve.

Independence Day is a joyous time for the nation, and it is a time when millions of families come together for celebrations, barbecues, and pool parties. It is also one of the busiest times of the year for police and fire departments.

“As public safety officials in the Merrimack Valley, we live and work in these communities, and we raise our families here. Our first priority is that holidays like the Fourth of July are safe and enjoyable for everyone,” said Groveland Fire Chief Robert Lay.

“Please heed our advice. The last thing we want us for someone to get hurt because they were doing something improper or illegal,” added Newburyport Fire Chief Christopher LeClaire.

Whether you are getting together for a cookout, pool party, marshmallow roast, or a cold beverage with friends and family, here are some vital tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone:

Fireworks of all kinds are illegal in Massachusetts

“Yes, we know that we say it every year, but every year people are injured by illegal fireworks and fireworks cause brush fires and structure fires around the country,” said Georgetown Police Chief Donald C. Cudmore. “Fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts, and police will seize them and fine those caught in possession.”

Recently, New Hampshire legalized firecrackers, and some have been confused about whether the change occurred in New Hampshire or Massachusetts. Firecrackers remain illegal in Massachusetts, as are sparklers, fountains, bottle rockets and all other fireworks.

Private citizens may not use, possess or sell fireworks anywhere in Massachusetts, nor may they purchase them legally elsewhere and transport them into Massachusetts.

Those in possession of fireworks will face fines, and those who sell fireworks face arrest.

“Leave the fireworks to the professionals,” said West Newbury Police Chief Arthur Reed. “Enjoy professional, planned fireworks displays and stay safe during the holiday week.”

Click here for more information on fireworks in Massachusetts.

Bonfires and Open Fires are Illegal from May 2 to January 14

Commercial fire pits designed to enclose a wood fire outdoors are legal and are great, when used safely and by adults, for keeping warm on a cool night or for roasting marshmallows. However, open burning and bonfires are illegal at this time and can cause dangerous brushfires that threaten wildlife, homes and lives.

When using a fire pit, never use lighter fluid or any other chemical—such as gasoline—to get the fire going. Properly built fires, using newspaper and small kindling on the bottom with larger wood on top, do not need any chemical enhancement.

“Fire pits can add an enjoyable element to an evening get-together, but they are also dangerous,” said West Newbury Fire Chief Michael Dwyer. “Keep children away from the flames, and never use gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire.”

You drink, you drive, you lose.

Homeowners are responsible for those consuming beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages on their premises, and the state’s social host law means that homeowners will be held responsible for any minors consuming alcohol on your property.

“The police will be out in force over the next week, looking for drunk drivers. Designate a driver, and get home safely,” said Newburyport City Marshal Mark Murray.

“Someone dies in a drunk driving crash every 51 minutes in the U.S. Don’t become a statistic,” added Groveland Police Chief Jeffrey Gillen.

Control access to alcohol and control quantities served. Never operate machinery, such as golf carts, grills or vehicles, under the influence of alcohol. Never drink and drive, and always use a designated driver if you do drink alcohol.

Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Fireworks are illegal, but injuries resulting from intoxicated and improper use of fireworks last a lifetime and are far worse than a monetary fine.

Use gas and charcoal grills safely

Use grills only for their intended purpose, and read the instructions that came with your grill. The Stoneham Fire Department recently responded to a fire caused when a homeowner accidentally used charcoal in a gas grill. Use only propane in a gas grill, and use only charcoal on a charcoal grill. Limit or avoid use of lighter fluid, and never use gasoline or other chemicals to light a grill.

“Food on the grill is symbolic of a summertime celebration, but misuse of gas and charcoal grills is a leading cause of fires and injuries around this time of the year,” said Georgetown Fire Chief Fred Mitchell.

Do not use gas or charcoal grills on patios or balconies. Gas grills can be used on first floor decks or patios only if there is an outdoor stairway to the ground, or it is at ground level. It is illegal to use gas or charcoal grills on patios or balconies above the first floor.

Always keep children away from grills while in use.

Pool and water safety

Always supervise children around pools. Avoid the use of glass containers and bottles around pools, where people may be walking with bare feet.

More than 200 children drown in backyard swimming pools each year, according to the American Red Cross. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that drowning is the number one cause of accidental death for children between the ages of 1 and 4.

When visiting the beach, note the weather and watch for rough waters. Always supervise children around natural waterways, as water often becomes deeper and rougher without warning.

“Pool and beach safety are priorities for our agencies, as drowning and accidential injuries are preventable tragedies that occur far too often across the country,” said Newbury Police Chief Michael A. Reilly

Before the party

“Proper planning ensures not only a successful party but also one that is free of danger and injury, where everyone gets home safely afterward,” said Merrimac Police Chief Eric M. Shears.

When mowing your lawn, keep your hands away from a running lawnmower. Never put your hands inside a lawnmower chute or under a running mower. Do not fuel a lawnmower while it is hot or immediately after it has been used.

Never store gasoline containers or propane cylinders indoors.

Fill pitchers of water or offer bottled water. Alcohol and heat can be a dangerous combination, and water prevents dehydration.

Stock up on sunscreen to avoid sunburn.

After the party

Dispose of ashes from charcoal grills and fires properly, in a metal container.

Clean up trash and debris.

Move leftover food to refrigerators or freezers promptly.

Make sure all of your guests have a safe way to get home.

“As police officers and firefighters, our top priorities are your health, safety and security,” said Salisbury Police Chief Thomas W. Fowler. “We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July holiday.”

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Stoneham Fire Department Quells Grill Fire

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Stoneham Fire Department
Chief Matthew Grafton
25 Central Street
Stoneham, MA 02180-2044

For Immediate Release

Friday, May 19, 2017

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 781-533-9398
Email: [email protected]

Stoneham Fire Department Quells Grill Fire

STONEHAM — Chief Matthew Grafton reports that the Stoneham Fire Department extinguished a grill fire this afternoon.

At approximately 1:30 p.m., Stoneham Fire received a report of an exterior grill fire at 19 Albion Avenue.

Upon arrival, firefighters were met with fire on the home’s back deck.

Ladder 1 and Engine 2 made a quick attack, extinguishing the grill and the fire that had extended to the deck’s railings and outside furniture. During the working fire, the Wakefield and Reading Fire Departments covered the Stoneham stations.

Prior to firefighters’ arrival, a construction worker from a crew completing work on a water main on Albion Avenue saw the fire and attempted to put it out with a fire extinguisher. The worker suffered burn injuries in the process and was transported to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston by ambulance.

Crews later determined that the fire was likely caused by the resident putting charcoal in the gas grill, which then caused the grill to overheat and blow the propane pressure relief valve.

No other injuries were reported and the fire was contained to deck. Damage is estimated at approximately $10,000.

“Thankfully, crews were able to quickly put out the fire to prevent extension into the home,” Chief Grafton said. “This fire appears to be accidental in nature. We ask that residents be careful when grilling this season to prevent fires and injuries.”

With warm weather now upon us, the Stoneham Fire Department would like to remind residents that when grilling, to follow several important safety tips from the Department of Fire Services:

Safety First:

  • Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.
  • Place grills away from the house, siding, and deck railings and out from under leaves of overhanging branches.
  • Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grilling area.
  • Never leave a burning grill unattended.

Gas Grills:

  • Make sure the lid of a gas grill is open when you light it. Propane can build up inside and when ignited, the lid may blow off.
  • Check that all connections are tight before turning on the gas.
  • Clean the grease trap every time you grill.
  • If you smell gas while cooking, turn the grill off and move away from it. Call 911 from a safe location. Do not move the grill.
  • Store propane cylinders upright in an outdoor, shaded area. Cylinders should not be used, stored or transported where they can be exposed to high temperatures.

Charcoal Grills:

  • Use only charcoal starter fluid. Never use gasoline or kerosene to start a fire in a grill and never add lighter fluid to burning briquettes or hot coals.
  • Always use charcoal grills in a well-ventilated area. Charcoal briquettes give off carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
  • Properly dispose of grill ashes. Allow the coals to burn out completely and then cool for 48 hours before disposal. If you must dispose of ashes before they are completely cooled, thoroughly soak them in water before putting them in a metal container.

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