While it is summertime, many people go outside to use the barbecue.
But the Regina Fire Department is hoping residents remember to be safe while doing so.
The City of Regina and the fire department are offering useful tips for citizens to keep in mind while utilizing their barbecues and other types of grills.
It may not seem like a dangerous activity to some, however an accident can strike at any moment and a fire could occur if people aren’t careful.
Randy Ryba, the city’s Fire Marshal, said there have already been three barbecue-related fires this year.
“They typically ignite the side of the house or structure and it will be in the attic before fire crews can get there,” explained Ryba. “There is a lot at stake with keeping the [grill] attended and keeping it away from your building.”
Some of the blazes firefighters have been called out to in the past have occurred on balconies from apartment buildings or condominiums.
According to Ryba, they happen relatively often and can prove to be difficult to deal with.
“It is a scary event and it causes a major amount of damage,” said Ryba.
“If you do have a small balcony on your condo or apartment, we’d like you to move [the grill] as far away from the side of the wall as possible, even if you have to turn it around against the railings which are typically metal in high buildings.”
So what can people do to make sure they avoid this type of scenario?
The fire department advises people to keep their grills at least one metre away from any structure.
And as Ryba mentioned, it’s important to stay with the barbecue when it is on and cooking food.
