PCI's Roadmap to Summer Safety: Grilling

CHICAGO, IL – Summer is in full swing and many are taking advantage of the warmer weather and spending time grilling outside. Did you know that nearly 2.6 billion BBQ events will happen this year? Before you fire up that grill, it’s always a good idea to make sure you are not only safe but in case the unthinkable happens you have enough insurance coverage to cover a claim.

Did you know that three out of five homes own a gas grill? 53% of these grill owners believe grilling is a healthier cooking option it can lead to potential danger if you are not prepared. Each year there is an average of 8,800 home fires caused by grilling. These home fires cause an estimated $37 million in property damage a year. 16% of home fires caused by grilling is because the grill was too close to other objects. It is important to place your grill away from trees, bushes, cars, buildings and other structures that could potentially catch fire.

PCI’s Summer Grilling Safety Tips

• Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from other objects

• Check wind direction before lighting a fire

• Place coals from your grill in a metal can with a lid once they have cooled

• Clean your grill after each use. This will remove grease that can start a fire

• Never leave your grill unattended

Grilling has led to roughly 18,000 patients each year being treated in ERs for grilling related injuries. PCIAA is working with FEMA to provide you with Burn Safety Tips to help you avoid a trip to the ER this summer.

PCI’s Summer Burn Safety Tips

• Keep a 3ft safe zone around your grill. This will keep kids and pets safe

• Wear short sleeves or roll up your sleeves when grilling

• Use long handed barbeque tools

• If burned, place it in cool water for three to five minutes

• Seek medical care if your burn is larger than your palm

For more information on Summer Facts and Tips you can follow @PCIAA on Twitter

###

Tags: