Summer BBQ Safety and Recalls

Grilling is a time-honored summer tradition in Illinois and across the nation. Despite its connotations of simple summer fun, grilling can be dangerous. Between 2009 and 2013, an average of 8,900 grill fires was reported each year, usually peaking in July. Whether causing structural damage to buildings or inflicting severe burns, grill fires can ruin your backyard gathering.

While common causes for grill fires include failing to clean the grill, grilling too close to flammable items, or leaving the grill unattended, grill leaks or breaks was the leading cause for outside, gas grill fires. If your grill leaks or breaks, it could be because of faulty manufacturing. Defective products can cause serious injuries, and grills are no exception.

Manufacturers of all products are required to notify consumers of recalls when they discover a product is defective or poses a safety hazard. Your first step to grill safety is to be aware of these recalls. If you’ve registered your manufacturer’s warranty, the company should notify you of any recalls. If you haven’t, that information can be found online through the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Aside from being aware of consumer recalls, here are some simple grilling safety tips to minimize your risk of injury during grilling season:

• Never leave a grill unattended
• Maintain your grill to ensure all parts are in working order
• Clean your grill regularly to remove built up fats and grease, which can increase the chance of starting an unintended fire
• Keep grills a safe distance away from anything flammable such as home siding, decks, fences, sheds, and dry leaves
• Keep children and pets away from the grill at all times
• Use propane and charcoal grills only outside

By following these safety tips and staying mindful of recalls, you can reduce your chance of being injured.

But if a faulty product injured you, such as a gas grill that leaks, you might be able to file a personal injury claim. If you think you might have a claim, speak with an attorney about your rights. A knowledgeable Arlington Heights personal injury attorney with experience handling faulty product cases can evaluate the facts and circumstances of your case and advise you on what you can do to seek fair compensation.

Backyard grilling doesn’t have to be dangerous. Always play it safe when operating a grill to ensure you can enjoy this classic summer activity worry-free.