BACKYARD BBQS AND FIREPITS

Fire Department Says Take Some Precautions When Cooking Outdoors

Cooking presents the greatest fire risk for most of us at home and moving cooking to the outdoors means a different set of fire safety guidelines to keep everyone safe. The West Chester Fire Department says to be mindful of the risks and take steps to prevent home fires.

“One of the biggest grilling concerns in our community involves outdoor cooking on balconies and small apartment patios,” said Chief Scott Brooks, West Chester Fire Department’s prevention officer.

• Position grills safely: Your grill should be on a level surface away from any structures including your home, deck railings and overhanging branches. Maintain a safe distance of at least 10 feet from any combustible materials. If you live in an apartment or condo, with rules set by your complex, use only gas or electric grills and grill only in designated areas.

• Keep grills clean: Before lighting the grill, make sure it’s clean and free of grease buildup, which can pose a fire hazard. Regularly remove grease and residue from grates and trays to prevent flare-ups

• Check for gas leaks: If using a gas grill, inspect the gas hose and connections for leaks before each use.

• Stay attentive: Never leave the grill unattended while it’s in use. Keep a close eye on the flames and be prepared to respond quickly to any flare-ups or unexpected developments.

• Use long-handled tools to avoid getting too close to the flames. This will help prevent burns and keep you safe while handling food

• Keep fire extinguisher near-by: Have a fire extinguisher readily available in case of emergencies. Make sure everyone knows its location and how to use it properly

• Practice safe food handling: Keep raw meat separate from other foods, wash your hands frequently and cook meat to the recommended internal temperatures.

• Extinguish and dispose of charcoal safely: If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to cool completely before disposing of them. Submerge them in water to ensure they are fully extinguished before discarding. Never dispose of coals or ashes in plastic bags or containers.

Outdoor Burning

Sitting around the fire pit, making s’mores and simply enjoying the outdoors is an activity we all enjoy.

Outdoor burning is regulated by the State of Ohio and applies to recreational fire pits and burning yard waste.

• Check for burn bans: Before starting any back yard fire, check for current burn bans or restrictions. During times of drought, high winds, etc. a burn ban may be put in place to protect residents and properties.

• Obtain permits as required: Depending on the type of burning you’re doing, a permit may be required from the West Chester Fire Department or the Southwest Ohio Air Quality Management Agency.

• Follow safe burning practices: When burning yard waste or debris, use approved containers such as burn barrels or pits constructed of non-combustible materials. Never burn materials in open piles and always keep fires small and under control.

• Maintain supervision: Never leave outdoor fires unattended, even for a short time. Never leave children unattended around a fire pit.

• Consider alternatives: Whenever possible, consider alternatives to outdoor burning such as composting yard waste or curbside trash removal. These are safer and better for our environment.

• Have an available water source nearby.

What is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag Warning is issued when conditions are poor/ dangerous for open burning/ fire pits. It may be due to drought, high winds or poor environmental conditions. When planning an evening with a fire pit or burning yard waste, always check for Red Flag Warnings for your area. West Chester posts these warnings in parks, as well as at westchesteroh.org and on Facebook and Nextdoor.com