Grilling Safety – Summer’s here! If you are firing up the grill anytime soon, here is some information to help keep you safe.

• First, make sure you can have a grill or open-flame device at your home. Fairfax County Fire Prevention Code prohibits the use and storage of open-flame, charcoal, gas, and/or propane-fueled grills on apartment or condominium balconies. Ask your apartment or management company about any other rules that apply to grills or open-flame devices.  
• When being used, grills should be at least 15 feet away from the building.  
• Propane is a popular fuel source but is also a volatile hazardous material and flammable gas. Always check propane cylinders for excessive rust, pitting, or other visual defects. To avoid leaks, make sure the regulator hose connecting the grill and cylinder is free of tears, dry rot, or other damage. If in doubt, replace your cylinder or any gas accessories that show signs of wear.
• The four numbers printed on top the cylinder indicate the manufacture date. For example, 0717 means July of 2017. Any cylinder over 12 years of age must have a requalification sticker.
• Along with ensuring the propane cylinder is free of visual defects and within date, it is very important that it is stored, protected, and secured upright, and kept from falling.
• Don’t store fuel like charcoal and lighter fluid near your grill.

The Office of the Fire Marshal’s website includes other rules and recommendations for your cookout, and Health Department food safety information is available online.

DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300, TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.