“This is one of those moments where we can use a challenge like these fires we just experienced as an opportunity to educate our citizens and they really should take note of this can happen to you.”
Captain Bill Smith is with the Grand Rapids Fire Department’s Strategic Planning Unit. He says in the last 24 hours, GRFD has responded to two fires, one last night at 10pm and one at 2 am. He says 5 people were displaced.
“These fires were attributed to charcoal grills in proximity to combustible material one being a house one a garage. This is a significant issue.”
Captain Smith says there are some basic tips that residents can follow.
“We want to remind everyone to keep clear of home. At least 10 feet. Keep vegetation away from the grill so if you’re grilling out on lawn, that its well-watered and consider taking out to a non-combustible surface like your driveway.”
The National Fire Protection Association stats show gas grills were involved in an average of more than nine thousand home fires per year with charcoal or other solid fueled grills involved in more than 14-hudnred. Captain Smith says this is a serious matter.
“Grills are an ignition source. They need to be treated with a lot of respect. Because, if you don’t keep them clean, in good repair or if you walk away while they are in operation, you are risking life and property.”
