The gas grill unexpectedly caught fire as we were seated on the veranda, and when we discovered what was causing the fire, we were all horrified.
We hadn’t had such a cozy get-together in a long time, so the entire family had assembled at Grandma’s that day. When we got there early in the morning, the kids and grandkids were all spread out in the garden, with some working in the kitchen and others helping to set the table.
It had a great atmosphere. Grandma was beaming; her presence with her grandchildren always makes her happy. We made the decision to grill some meat, just like we used to.
My brother and Dad pulled out the marinated beef that we had soaked the previous evening in olive oil, garlic, and rosemary. Vegetables like maize, zucchini, and bell peppers were chopped by someone else and added to the grill. The scent was wonderful, the children were playing in the garden, and the parents were laughing, talking, and sharing amusing family tales and memories of their early years.
We cleaned everything, cleared the grill, and sat down for coffee on the porch as the sun started to drop. We gathered in a circle, enjoying the nice evening and having a calm conversation while Grandma brought out her famous cakes.
Suddenly, there was a scent. Burnt and sharp. When we turned around, we noticed that the grill was emitting thick, black smoke. Flames a second later! There is actual fire coming from beneath the lid.
Grandma shivered with terror. Unable to move, she sat with her hands clasped to her chest. Fortunately, there was a fire extinguisher hanging by the entrance, so one of us rushed to turn off the electricity, another called the fire service, and a third grabbed it. We all responded swiftly.
We were all appalled when the firefighters eventually showed there, examined the grill, and described the origin of the fire. I’m telling you about this so you may also exercise extra caution.
As soon as the firefighters arrived and inspected the grill, they declared that a buildup of grease inside the body and inadequate cleaning were the causes.
We were taken aback. It turned out that food residue and grease can build up within the grill, particularly in the tray underneath the burners, even if it appears clean on the outside.
This can easily catch fire if the lid is left closed or during the subsequent use.
According to the firefighters, such events are common, particularly during the summer months when a lot of people use gas and electric barbecues.
Grease can catch fire and cause the interior temperature to rise quickly if you don’t clean it frequently. If it’s a gas grill, this could result in an explosion of the gas tank in addition to a fire.
Fortunately, nobody was harmed. However, we were shook. And now, we always make sure to check and clean the grill thoroughly before turning it on again.
To keep you secure, we told you this story. Technology is delicious and convenient, but only if you use it safely.
Look after your loved ones and yourself
