When you think of summer, you think of BBQs, holidays, and pretty much outdoor activity that allows you to be gluttonous to the fullest extent. With these outdoor gatherings, there’s almost always a grill or a fire pit involved. Don’t let your celebration of summer eating interfere with grilling and fire safety.
You can’t have a cookout without a grill! Grilling is the perfect because it allows you to cook for your guests while still being able to socialize. There are a few things to keep in mind while you’re cooking on your grill, whether it be gas or charcoal.
Regardless of the type of grill you are using, it has to be kept away from any type of siding, railings, soffits, and trees! All of these elements have the potential of melting and/or catching fire. This doesn’t seem like the ideal way to enjoy your BBQ, does it?
Let’s say you’re using a charcoal grill, nothing tastes better than a hamburger on a charcoal grill. You’re brother’s kids are running around on your deck, they’re getting anxious to eat. Out of nowhere little Billy runs into the charcoal grill, spewing lava hot briquettes everywhere. DON’T GRAB THE BRIQUETTES! These little suckers were made to burn at 600ºF for an hour! Some can even reach 1000ºF!
Now, this is why it’s so important to have a fire extinguisher on hand! If you have a soft wood deck like pine or cedar, this entire scenario could end badly. If you have a deck made of composite materials, be prepared for some melting, and maybe even some flames. If your deck was made out of Advantage Ipe™ you are extremely lucky! Advantage Ipe™ has up to a Class A Rating for flame spread!
Don’t believe me? Watch the Fire vs. Decking and Charcoal vs. Decking of DeckBuster™!