Base safety, fire department stress grill safety Published June 2, 2017 By Mark Wyatt 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – 66th Civil Engineering Division fire officials urge all members of the community to use proper grilling techniques when cooking outdoors. According to the most recent data on the National Fire Protection Association website, fire departments responded to nearly 9,000 home fires involving grills and outdoor cooking between 2009 and 2013. Whether grilling on base or off, grills should remain a safe distance from homes, deck railings and not be under eaves or overhanging branches, according to Capt. Robert J. Kenyon, 66th Air Base Group Fire Department fire/life safety inspector. "On Hanscom Air Force Base, propane or charcoal grills must be used a minimum of 15 feet from a structure or combustible material," he said. "Grills must only be used outdoors and kept a safe distance from children and pets.” Base safety officials also discussed other safety considerations such as keeping the grill free from grease. “After every use it is recommended that people clean their grill by removing grease or fat buildup inside and from the tray below the grill,” said Shawn Rice, safety manager of the 66th Air Base Group Safety Office. Kenyon also cautions that when lighting a grill, be sure the grill cover is open to avoid combustion. He also spoke about using charcoal starter fluid with only charcoal grills and to never douse an already lit flame with charcoal fluid. "It's also a good idea to have a hose or fire extinguisher nearby in the event of a fire emergency," Kenyon said. Rice also discussed the safe removal of hot coals. "It's critical to allow the coals to cool completely before disposing in a metal container," Rice said. "The coals could ignite and start a more serious fire." Other considerations for those cooking outdoors include checking for leaks from the propane tank to the grill. Kenyon suggests examining the gas tank hose frequently by applying a soap and water solution to the hose. “A propane leak from a hose will release bubbles,” he said. “If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill and get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.” He went on to suggest that if you smell gas while cooking, immediately move away from the grill and call the fire department. Other grilling safety tips Kenyon suggested are to avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking on the grill and to never leave the grill unattended. In the event of a fire or any other emergency, call 911. For more information about fire safety and prevention, call 781-225-5601.