The grilling season has dawned on UW-Madison, and for every juicy burger flipped, a grilling hazard awaits.
According to Madison Fire Department Lt. Mike Anderson, grill safety is often overlooked but is easy to understand and follow. He admitted only a few fires occur per year, but they can cause major damage.
""One or two fires a year is a lot,"" Anderson said, adding that a small percentage of the population cannot adequately operate a grill. ""But it only takes a few of them to have a problem.""
One such grilling disaster happened last weekend when Pincus McBride Market and Deli, 301 N. Hamilton St., suffered $500,000 in damages due to hot coals falling on the roof from grill above.
Randy Knapp, Wisconsin Propane Gas Association executive director, said propane grills are growing in popularity because they electrically start and provide extra cooking space. Still, he said propane grills—while easy to use—pose dangers to users if directions are not followed.
""The most important thing when you're using propane [is to] make sure that the connections are properly fitted on to your grill and that there's no leaks,"" Knapp said.
Anderson echoed Knapp's thoughts, saying both types of grilling require similar safety measures. The biggest one, according to Anderson, is keeping grills away from or off decks.
""The problem is solved by eliminating the deck, if you put it on the ground a lot of mistakes can happen without creating a huge hazard,"" Anderson said.
Anderson also said he thought city ordinances require grills remain a certain length from houses.
""We don't enforce it,"" Anderson said, adding that if it is blatant, actions may be taken. ""But we don't go hunting for it.""
Knapp recommended that when grillers light propane grills with the top open, they should try to avoid using excessive lighter fluid and always remember the items they are using are flammable.
