Before you entertain guests at your next deck party, educating yourself on the importance of fire safety is critical.

Did you know that, according to the United State Fire Administration (USFA), in 2012, there were an estimated 5,700 grill fires on residential properties? Knowing how to set your deck up for safety can avoid a disastrous accident from occurring. Here are some tips that will help improve the fire safety on your deck.

Grills

Decks and grills go hand in hand like peanut butter and jelly, you almost can’t have one without the other; but before you grill up some pork chop sandwiches, take this into consideration:

• Ensure your grill is a safe distance away from any siding, railings, soffits, and overhanging branches.
• Designate a spot where the grill is away from most foot traffic.
• Teach children about a “safe zone” away from the grill.
• Empty the grease trap, because a hot grill can ignite it at any time.
• Use a non-flammable matte under and around your grill.

As always you should have a fire extinguisher on hand for any accidents, and always follow all manufactures’ instructions. If you are using a charcoal grill, and it happens to be knocked over DO NOT PICK UP THE CHARCOAL WITH YOUR HANDS! Charcoal is designed be burn at 600ºF for about and hour, and in some cases the coals can reach up to 1000ºF.

Fire Pits

Fire pits are a fantastic way to enjoy summer nights, and they also add a beautiful ambiance to you deck. The increasing popularity for these over the years, have also drawn up concerns. When used properly a fire pit and be the perfect addition to your outdoor space.

•  Keep flammable materials and fluids away from the fire.
• Do not attempt to relight a fire with any flammable liquids.
• Teach children about fire safety, and encourage them not to play around open flames.
• Use only approved materials in fire pits. Items such as paper, leaves, or soft woods like pine and cedar can pop and throw sparks.

Just like a grill, make sure you have a fire extinguisher on hand, and follow all manufactures’ instructions. If a fire is started and gets out of hand, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TACKLE IT. Call the fire department immediately and get everyone off the deck and away from the fire. Do not attempt to retrieve any items from your decking. Safety is of the utmost importance.

If you’re wondering how your decking holds up against the elements of fire, check out DeckBusters™! See exactly what happens when hot charcoal, and a blow torch are put to the test with Advantage Ipe™, capstock composite, traditional composite, and even cedar!