Page 4 • Wednesday , July 12 , 2023 • The Hammonton Gazette
HFD shares tips on protecting yourself from fireworks , grills
FIRE , from Page 1
Summertime also means more outdoor activities and one of those activities include outdoor grilling . Department Lieutenant Joseph Lizza emphasized placing your barbecue grill away from siding and deck railings and out from under leaves and overhanging branches and not storing or using a grill on a porch or balcony .
“ This is especially important when using these items in a more condensed setting such as a townhouse or apartment complex . Use long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe ,” Lizza said .
Berenato provided some grill and barbecue safety tips such as only using your barbecue grill outside , placing your grill approximately ten feet from all structures as this will help prevent heat transfer and the spread of fire to any adjacent structures .
“ Grills should lay on a flat and level surface and also check for leaks prior to use each time as gas leaks could cause the end user to be burned and contribute to the spread of fire . Always clean your grill after each use because leftover grease and oils on the grill could cause a flare up resulting in injuries to the user ,” Berenato said .
Department Fire Chief Sean Macri said that cooking and grilling incidents are the main culprits of causing fire problems and to be sure to always pay attention when cooking inside , and not get distracted by family and friends . Macri stated that grills need to be cleaned and properly maintained and to keep them away from anything that may catch fire as well as keeping kids away from the grilling area and never leaving them unattended . Macri also provided tips for those cooking with fire pits .
“ Fire pits must be kept clean and maintained and never dump hot ash by anything that may catch fire and always fully extinguish before leaving unattended . If you are in an area that has forest fires , always keep your yard , roof and gutters free of debris and follow all the local and state outdoor burn warnings . These are just some ways to help prevent issues
during the summer months so you can enjoy your space with friends and family ,” Macri said .
Lizza also urged those that to call the fire department immediately for assistance if a fire breaks out or any type of outdoor fire that can ’ t be quickly and effectively extinguished . Lizza also touched on the topic of fireworks , suggesting those to closely supervise all fireworks and that the best way to prevent fires from occurring due to fireworks is by going to public firework shows done by professionals . “ Fireworks are dangerous and are only enjoyable if used properly . If you are using fireworks , be sure to keep a safe distance from buildings , dry vegetation , flammable liquids and other people . There really is no type of firework that is safe enough for children to use without the supervision of an adult . It is easy to assume that fireworks like sparklers are low risk and cannot start a fire but the truth is that under the right conditions , these fireworks can start a small fire . Never attempt to relight fireworks that didn ’ t work properly the first time you started it . Instead , dump them in a bowl or bucket of water ,” Lizza said .
Lizza also advised those to be prepared for an unexpected fire and that if you are taking all the proper precautions , then the risk of fire is greatly reduced but not eliminated . Lizza said to be sure to know where your nearest fire extinguisher is located within your home or workplace and always dial 911 as soon as possible .