Millville Fire Started with Gas Grill
Millville Fire Chief Ronald S. Landry and State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey said today that an Independence Day house fire that displaced three people is believed to have started with a gas grill next to the home.
The Chestnut Hill Road fire was jointly investigated by the Millville Fire Department and State Police from the Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, who determined that the point of origin was a gas grill on a rear deck that had been used earlier that night, and the cause was accidental.
“Summertime is grilling season, so it’s important to remember that gas grills should always be at least 10 feet from the side of a building and never beneath a roof, overhang, or tree branches.” said Chief Landry. “After each use, and before disconnecting the propane tank, be sure to shut off the gas at the tank. Fortunately, residents were alerted to the fire by functioning smoke alarms and no one was injured.”
“Over the past five years, Massachusetts fire departments responded to more than 400 fires involving grills, hibachis, and barbecues,” said State Fire Marshal Ostroskey. “These fires caused 15 civilian injuries, six firefighter injuries, and $4 million in property damage. Gas grills are safe and convenient when used properly, so always follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for proper handling, care, and maintenance.”
The fire, first reported at about 11:05 pm on July 4, spread from the rear exterior of the house to the attic. Residents were alerted by working smoke alarms, called 911, and made efforts to extinguish the fire outside. The Millville Fire Department responded and extinguished the fire, which had climbed the side of the house and spread to the interior of the attic.
Grilling Safety Tips:
Always grill outdoors.
Grills must be 10 feet from the side of a building unless the manufacturer's instructions say it can be closer. Make sure grills are not underneath overhanging branches.
Grills must not be used on a porch, balcony or deck with a roof, overhang or wall (other than the exterior of the building).
Grills can only be used on open first floor porches, decks, or patios if there is an outdoor stairway to the ground, or the porch is at ground level.
Grills cannot be used on fire escapes.
Place grills away from the house and deck railings.
Keep all matches, lighters, and lighter fluid away from children.
Keep children and pets three feet away from grills. Children should never play near grills or propane cylinders.
For more grilling safety tips, visit https://www.mass.gov/service-details/grilling-safety