Springtime around the country, everyone is getting ready to spend more time outside. Now that COVID restriction are lifting a bit, people may be gathering more often for celebrations, get-togethers and good old fashioned BBQ’s. PRC Restoration is just as excited as everyone else for the new hopeful season, but we also know that fire damage can be on the rise due to the increase in social gatherings and outdoor cooking.
To make sure our San Bernardino residents are staying safe while they are enjoying the warm weather, take some time to make sure you are following these simple BBQ safety tips and if you do experience a fire in your home, contact the professionals at PRC Restoration today.
Fire Damage Restoration In San Bernardino
Do Not Use A BBQ Indoors Or In Small Spaces – If you live in a small duplex or apartment complex that has a small outdoor patio, do not attempt to BBQ in this small space. The chances of the wind picking up or the flames fanning out is too high and can easily cause a major fire. Also, indoor BBQ use is a big fat DON’T! Nobody is above this rule. BBQ’s are meant to stay outside for many, many different reasons. The rule of thumb is to keep the grill at least 10 feet away from the house – the farther away, the better.
Keep Your Grill Clean – Grease and fat build up on your grill increases the risk of fire damage. Grease and fat will only fuel fire flare ups and can easily turn a fun BBQ experience into a major disaster.
Stay Away From Outdoor Decorations And Furniture – Outdoor decorations like umbrellas and pillows can spark easily. The material that most outdoor decorations and furniture are made of is highly flammable and can spread fires fast. Stay safe and stay away from outdoor objects.
Don’t Ignore Gas Leaks – Look For Them – Be proactive and look for gas leaks before you start using the grill. You can check for gas leaks by mixing a solution of 1/2 liquid dish soap and 1/2 water and rubbing it on the hoses and connections. If bubbles arise when you turn the gas on (be sure the lid to the grill is open), this is a sign that the hoses have tiny holes or the connections are not tight.
Keep A Fire Extinguisher Nearby – You should have a fire extinguisher on hand regardless – but while you are grilling, keep it nearby. But make sure you know how to use it before hand. Many deaths have occurred because people try to fight off fires instead of calling 911 right away. Don’t waste time if you don’t know how to use the fire extinguisher and call 911 immediately.
Stay Nearby – If you are the grill master at a BBQ get-together, DO NOT leave your grill unattended. Fires grow fast and spread faster. Every second you are away from your grill is a second that the fire has to cause more damage. Don’t risk it. Stay nearby and send someone else to run errands and do the food prep chores.
Remember, if a fire does break out, you can count on the professionals at PRC Restoration to help cleanup smoke and soot damage, and restore damage to any structure. Our team is certified, insured and experienced in handling all types for fire damage restoration and can help you right away.
Springtime around the country, everyone is getting ready to spend more time outside. Now that COVID restriction are lifting a bit, people may be gathering more often for celebrations, get-togethers and good old fashioned BBQ’s. PRC Restoration is just as excited as everyone else for the new hopeful season, but we also know that fire damage can be on the rise due to the increase in social gatherings and outdoor cooking. 
