USFA: Grill fires present summertime risk
An average of 5,700 grill fires occur on residential properties in the United States every year, according to a new report (.pdf file) from the U.S. Fire Administration.
The report is based on data from 2006 through 2008. During that time, approximately 10 deaths, 100 injuries and $37 million in property loss occurred annually from grill fires.
Grill fires were most prevalent during warmer months, with 57 percent occurring from May through August. Additionally, 49 percent of fires occurred between the hours of 5 and 8 p.m. Gas fuels were the power source in 79 percent of grill fires, most commonly propane. Mechanical failures caused 35 percent of fires, with leaking pipes or containers responsible for 23 percent.
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