Outdoor cooking: Don’t let it get away from you Published July 29, 2011 By Earnie Baxter Tinker Fire and Emergency Services TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Recently, Tinker Fire and Emergency Services responded to a call in base housing -- a gas grill was on fire. The occupant lit the grill to preheat it, then went back inside the home to get the food prepared. Shortly after, the occupants' son discovered the fire and reported it immediately. The occupants responded quickly in calling 911. The occupant was successful in their attempt to extinguish the fire with a water hose and kept the fire from spreading. When fire crews arrived they were met by the resident family who had evacuated the home appropriately and provided a status update on the situation. Fire crews turned off the propane bottle which was still spewing gas. After an investigation, firefighters determined that the pressure regulator had appeared to split and ignited the gas at the tank area. Several things were done right. The grill was moved away from a storage shed prior to cooking and, because the grill was on a grassy surface, a water hose was close by and ready if needed. "The family appeared to work as a team," said Chief James Bradley. "Dad proceeded to fight the fire with a water hose, while mom evacuated the family, called 911 to report the fire and alerted the neighbors of the situation." According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments across the United States respond to more than 7,500 home fires involving gas grills, hibachis or barbecues a year, including an average of 3,200 structure fires and 4,500 outside fires. Of these fires, there are a reported 13 civilian deaths, 120 reported injuries and $70 million in direct property damage. Has grease been removed and has the grill been safety checked before cooking? Not sure? Use the following safety guidelines to ensure safe cooking all year long. After each bottle change and before the first use of the season, officials recommend checking the propane tank, connection, regulator and hose for leaks. To check for leaks, apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak -- by smell or the soapy bubble test -- and there is no flame, turn off the tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill. Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors. · The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. · Keep children and pets away from the grill area. · Keep the grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. · Never leave a grill unattended. With the current burn ban that prohibits the use of charcoal on base still in effect, it is a good time to take that first step in fire safety with your outdoor cooking.