BREWSTER – A grill on the deck of a residence on Middle Branch Road in Brewster ignited the wood frame home when flames extended into the eaves and rear of the residence.
Nine-one-one calls around 5 p.m. Sunday alerted Brewster firefighters and when Assistant Chief Dan Rubin arrived moments later, he called in mutual aid from the Carmel, Mahopac, Lake Carmel, Croton Falls, Putnam Lake, and Somers Fire Departments, Putnam Bureau of Emergency Services, in addition to EMS providers from the Brewster Rescue Squad, Carmel Volunteer Ambulance Corps and an Empress Paramedic.
Arriving firefighters conducted both an interior and exterior attack of the blaze which averted a total loss of the home.
No one was injured.
Firefighters reminded residents to familiarize themselves with a checklist of practical maintenance and safety measures to prevent a grille, deck or house from going up in flames.
The National Fire Protection Association noted Monday “July is the peak month for outdoor grill fires. Thermal burns – burns to the skin from direct contact with hot surfaces and a naked flame – account for half of all injuries involving barbecue grills.”
Putnam Commissioner of Emergency Services James Oster who has responded to his share of grill fires over the years suggested residents take several precautionary steps to avoid a calamity. “Periodically apply a soap and water solution to the propane cylinder, hose, and all joints to detect leaks. If bubbles form which shows a propane leak, contact a service professional. Never use gas cylinders that are damaged or past their use date. If in doubt, have it inspected at your fill station,” he said.
Former Carmel Fire Chief Robert Lipton Jr. recalled several summers ago when a family decided to grill inside their home. “Never use a barbecue grill indoors including the basement or garage. It’s not only a fire hazard but also can cause elevated levels of carbon monoxide,” he said.
Other safety tips include placing the grill away from a home’s siding and deck railings, and keeping it clear of eaves, overhanging branches, and anything else that could catch fire.
Always leave the lid open when firing up the grill – and minimize flare-ups by keeping grill racks and trays free of grease buildup.
Lipton also suggested keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and never leaving the grill unattended.
Officials said charcoal grill users can safely use lighter fluid by following the directions on the container.
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