Grilling safety tips from local firefighters ahead of July 4th

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- July 4th is right around the corner, which means many of you will be firing up your grill for backyard cookouts. 

But, local fire departments say you need to be careful as you’re doing that. 

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster issued a statewide burn ban back in March after a series of wildfires across the state.

North Augusta Public Safety says it’s making those living in the area more alert. 

“With the major fires we’ve had in the state, I think that’s getting everyone’s attention to take good control of their own, and help each other out,” said Sgt. Ben Haupfear.

Across the river, the Georgia Forestry Commission has now followed suit—issuing a burn ban through October 1st.

“You’re not supposed to burn any outdoor debris during this timeframe,” said Chief Danny Kuhlmann, representing Columbia County Fire Rescue. “If and when you are allowed to burn, it’s always good to take precautions. Notify us, let us know that you are burning, and have some type of water source available to put out any potential fires.”

The exception is for controlled burns, with a few materials in that category. 

“Small sticks, leaves, nothing bigger than an entry tube. It’s mainly just for leaves, pine straw, and stuff like that,” said Chief Danny Kuhlmann, representing Columbia County Fire Rescue.

While some of you will use those items to make s’mores, you should also be cautious using your grill.

Firefighters say you need to make sure your grill is clean and in a proper location outside. 

“Make sure you’re not in a covered area in case something gets out of hand. Know your limitations when you’re using charcoal fires and lighter fluids. Make sure you use the proper amount,” Haupfear said.

They recommend to put lighter fluid on the charcoal 3 to 5 minutes before you light it.

“You’re supposed to put it on and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes before you light it. If you pour it on there and light it, you can get burned, but it’s not going to soak in the charcoal and light the charcoal off like it’s designed to do,” said Kuhlmann. “If you’re using a lighter fluid, make sure it’s a lighter fluid—not kerosine, gasoline or anything like that. Kerosine and gasoline are a lot more explosive than the lighter fluid itself.”

He also recommends having a fire extinguisher nearby, and to use tongs to move food items on the grill.

But it also comes down to taking care of your body.  

“Dehydration is a bigger killer of people, especially the elderly and the children—that’s why we have cooling centers for the elderly to go to. You just need to look out for one another and make sure everybody’s drinking the proper amount of fluids,” Kuhlmann said.

Firefighters also urge you to be aware of your surroundings as you’re grilling and doing outdoor activities.

You should not be wearing loose clothing, and you need to keep young children a safe distance away from the grill and flames. 

“These things are in essence common sense, but we’ve all heard stories about people making a simple mistake which leads to a bigger problem. It just takes time to slow down and not get complacent,” said Haupfear.