Richmond Fire-Rescue is sounding the alarm for residents using their barbecues — so only the food sizzles and not the house.
Richmond Fire-Rescue’s deputy chief, Kim Howell, said house fires can occur due to barbecue placement and that chance increases if it’s not cleaned regularly, as old grease can catch fire quickly.
“If you have your barbecue placed right against your house, behind it [can be] a flammable point, such as wood sidings, which can catch on fire and then travel,” Howell said.
“If there is no fire extinguisher, there is no stopping it.”
As a general rule, grills should be placed at least 10 feet away from the house and any structure. It should also not be located near deck railings, sidings or low hanging tree branches.
