There are about 5,700 grill fires on residential properties each year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, and the majority them are caused by malfunctioning gas grills. These fires are responsible for roughly $37 million in damages, 100 injuries and 10 fatalities annually. July is National Grilling Month. While the backyard cookouts celebrated this month are popular summer social affairs, grilling enthusiasts must take precautions in order to keep people and property safe during a cookout. Before inviting the neighborhood over for burgers and franks, it's important for homeowners and renters to review their insurance coverage in the event of a fire. Standard policies generally cover damage to the home, insured structures on the property such as sheds or outbuildings, and personal possessions. The liability portion of the policy covers injuries to guests. Outdoor cooks also should give their grill a good once-over before each use by heeding these tips from the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I):
  • Search the Consumer Product Safety Commission website to ensure the grill hasn't recently been recalled.
  • Check the grill hoses for cracks, holes and brittleness.
  • Check for blockages, especially in the Venturi tube, which runs to the burners.
  • Check for leaks by running a 1:1 solution of soap and water along hoses and connections. When turning on the gas, bubbles will appear if any points are leaking.
  • Adjust hoses away from areas that are hot or where grease can drip on them.
  • Cover your grill after use to protect it from the elements.
  • Store propane tanks outside, away from the home, and ensure the valve is fully turned off after each use.
The slideshow above illustrates nine tips from First Alert that will help keep grill masters, guests and homes safe during backyard food fests.

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Brittney Meredith-Miller

Brittney Meredith-Miller is assistant editor of PropertyCasualty360.com. She can be reached at [email protected].

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