Category Archives: Homeowner Tips

Home / Archive by category "Homeowner Tips"

Grilling Safety Tips for 2019

Grilling safety tips for 2019

One of the greatest things about summer is more time spent outdoors. This includes outdoor grilling and cooking. However, every year there are reports of damage to both people and homes from grilling accidents. Below is a list of some safety tips that will ensure you have a safe and accident free summer.

All grills, including propane, charcoal and electric, in addition to gas fryers, should always be used outdoors and away from any structures, trees or any other items that could ignite due to the high heat output.

Never leave a grill unattended. Most people report that they only left the grill for a moment, but it only takes seconds for a disaster to happen.

Keep your grill clean. Remove any leaves or other debris that may find its way into your grill. Empty all grease traps frequently and clean your bottom tray. Grease fires are caused by excessive grease build up and are easily preventable.

When starting a charcoal grill, never use gasoline, but instead use charcoal grill starter fluid. Never use more than the recommended amount listed in the instructions. Using too much starter fluid can cause a flame up and injure people and structures. If you use an electric starter, make sure to use a UL approved extension cord that is rated for the wattage of the starter you are using. Overloading your electrical system can cause damage to your homes’ electrical wiring. Use caution, as electrical starters can stay hot enough to start a fire long after they have been unplugged.

When started propane grills, always inspect for damage to gas lines. If you smell gas, never start your grill. If you suspect a leak, spray soapy water on the line and if a leak is present, you will see bubbles form at the location of the leak. Have your grill serviced by a professional and never attempt to fix a grills’ gas line yourself.

Follow these simple precautions to ensure a fun and safe summer for you and your family.

Storm Watch vs Warning

Here is a great article by the Nation Weather Service explaining the definitions between watch and warnings.  They also list helpful links such as how to find your local forecast office.  Check out the full article here

What is the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service?

  • Tornado Watch: Be Prepared! Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review and discuss your emergency plans and check supplies and your safe room. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching. Acting early helps to save lives! Watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where tornadoes may occur. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.
  • Tornado Warning: Take Action! A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. There is imminent danger to life and property. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If in a mobile home, a vehicle, or outdoors, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Warnings are issued by your local forecast office. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area (around the size of a city or small county) that may be impacted by a tornado identified by a forecaster on Radar or by a trained spotter/law enforcement who is watching the storm.
  • Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Be Prepared! Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued. Watches are issued by the Storm Prediction Center for counties where severe thunderstorms may occur. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states.
  • Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Take shelter in a substantial building. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds. Warnings are issued by your local forecast office. Warnings typically encompass a much smaller area (around the size of a city or county) that may be impacted by an on-going severe thunderstorm.