School is out and summer is finally here! As Delawareans and visitors participate in the activities that we look forward to the most during the summer months, the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office, along with the Delaware State Fire School, and the Delaware State Fire Prevention Commission, want to remind Delawareans and visitors to consider fire safety. Following these simple fire safety tips, whether you’re grilling, boating, or floating, will help ensure your family stays safe.

There isn’t anything quite like firing up the grill and cooking outdoors. While grills come with barbeques and delicious food, they also come with the risk of fire and burns if caution is not taken. Nationally, July is the peak month for grill fires. A grill placed too close to a house or combustible item, is surely a recipe for disaster!

If your family plans on boating this summer, we remind you that fire is a very real threat, not only to your boat, but more importantly to your passengers. Fires that occur on boats or in marinas pose a unique challenge for emergency responders due to hazardous conditions, rapid growth, and limited access. Be sure to have the appropriate fire extinguishers and make sure they are easily accessible. While fire extinguishers are very important, ultimately, the best defense against fire is always prevention. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms should be installed in all sleeping areas or as specified by the manufacturer’s instructions.

Everyone loves a pool day on those hot, summer days. If you have a pool, hot tub, or spa at home, we urge you to inspect all electrical connections. Be sure to keep all electrical appliances, cords, or equipment, at least 6 feet away from the water. When skin is wet, or when surrounding surfaces are wet, the risk of electrocution where electricity is present, is much greater.

Please follow these simple tips so your family has a fun, safe summer, full of happy memories, free from injury and fires.

Grilling Safety
 Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
 The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
 Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
 Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
 Never leave your grill unattended.
 Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
 There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
 If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
 Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
 There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
 When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
 Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
 Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles.
 If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill.
 If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
 If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
 If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
 If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off, and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting it.

Onboard Boat Safety
 Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to alert occupants to a fire.
 Have a fire emergency plan and practice it.
 Inspect electrical wiring, connections, cords, and battery-charging equipment to ensure they are installed properly and in good condition.
 Have the appropriate fire extinguishers and make sure they are easily accessible. Train all boaters on how to use them.
 Check your cooling and exhaust systems. Make sure they work properly.
 Turn off portable heaters when you leave the boat or go to sleep.
 Only use certified chargers for personal electronic devices.
 Don’t overload power outlets on the boat.

Electrical / Water Safety
 If you are putting in a new pool, hot tub, or spa, be sure the wiring is performed by a licensed electrician.
 Outdoor receptacles must have covers that keep them dry even when appliances are plugged into them.
 Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are special devices designed to protect against electric shock and electrocution.
 Electrical appliances, equipment, and cords should be kept at least 6 feet away from the water.
 Avoid handling electrical devices when you are wet.
 Make sure that any overhead lines maintain the proper distance over a pool and other structures, such as a diving board.
 Do not swim during a thunderstorm.
 Have a qualified electrician periodically inspect and— where necessary—replace or upgrade the electrical devices or equipment that keep your pool, spa, or hot tub electrically safe.
 Have a qualified electrician show you how to turn off all power in case of an emergency.

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