The East Meadow Fire Department is urging residents to take extra precautions around backyard grills this summer, warning that barbecue mishaps can quickly turn into serious fires when propane, natural gas, decks or vinyl siding are involved.
The East Meadow Volunteer Fire Department said its chiefs, officers and members respond each year to barbecue-related emergencies in local backyards. Several Long Island fire departments have already responded this year to serious fires that caused significant property damage after grilling incidents, according to the department.
Fire officials said modern backyard layouts can add to the danger. Large wood or plastic decks, vinyl siding and grills placed too close to homes can help flames spread quickly. If a grill fire reaches the siding of a house, flames can climb toward the roofline and enter the soffits, creating the risk of fire spreading into the attic.
“If such a fire goes undetected for any prolonged period of time, firefighters will arrive to a large body of fire advancing fast to consume a neighbor’s precious property, or worse,” the department said in its safety advisory.
The department said any barbecue emergency involving propane or natural gas should be treated as a true emergency. Residents should shut off the fuel source only if they can do so safely. If a grill is on fire, leaking or cannot be approached safely, residents should evacuate the area and call the East Meadow Fire Department directly at (516) 542-0576.
Fire officials said callers should be prepared to tell dispatchers whether the incident involves a gas leak or a fire, whether the grill is close to a home or other structure, and how long the leak or fire has been occurring. That information is relayed to responding firefighters and helps determine how they approach the scene.
Propane tanks, commonly used with backyard grills, are generally safe when properly maintained, but can become dangerous during a leak or fire, officials said. Propane is colorless, odorless and heavier than air, though an odor similar to rotten eggs is added so leaks can be detected. Because propane sinks, it can collect in low-lying areas or enter homes through open cellar windows, creating an explosive environment.
Natural gas behaves differently because it is lighter than air and tends to rise, but fire officials said leaks involving either fuel can be dangerous if gas accumulates.
A fire involving a propane tank creates another risk. Heat can weaken tank components and increase pressure inside the cylinder, raising the possibility of a violent rupture known as a boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion, or BLEVE. Firefighters may focus first on cooling the tank with water while keeping the burning gas controlled before attempting to shut the valve.
The department also reminded residents that propane grills may not be used on balconies, terraces or roofs, and that charcoal grills require proper clearance and an immediate water source. Children should be kept away from grills, and residents should keep a Class ABC fire extinguisher, garden hose or water supply nearby.
During grilling, residents should avoid loose clothing, use long-handled tools and never leave a grill unattended. Fire officials also warned against adding starter fluid to an open flame and said alcoholic beverages should be kept away from grills because they can be flammable.
After cooking, propane should be shut off at both the grill and tank. Tanks should never be stored indoors, in direct sunlight or in the trunk of a vehicle. Grills and grease trays should be cleaned regularly to prevent grease fires.
Chief of Department Kurt W. Becker, Assistant Chiefs Jeffrey A. Rosenthal, John J. O’Brien Jr. and Edward A. Licciardo, along with the department’s members, wished residents a safe summer season.
