When Backyard BBQs Go Wrong

Summer goes hand-in-hand with the sounds of burgers and dogs simmering on the grill. But did you know that every year in Michigan grills cause more than 6,000 fires, 5 fatalities, and over 170 injuries? Gas grills alone account for over 2,700 fires, 80 injuries, and millions of dollars in fire damage. Anytime fuel and fire are present there is a risk of explosions and severe burn injuries. Outdoor grilling is no exception. You can avoid injuries by taking proper precautions and following basic safety precautions. But you should know your legal rights and what to do if you or someone you love is injured in a BBQ grill explosion.

How to Start a Fire for Grilling

By following basic safety precautions, you can prevent explosions, burns, and other injuries when grilling outside.

• Clean the grill racks and grease trays before starting the grill.
• Check the gas tank hoses for leaks at the beginning of summer and periodically thereafter.
• Place the grill in a safe, level location away from structures, coolers, awnings, and hanging branches.
• Open the lid before igniting the grill.
• Turn on the gas by opening the valve to start gas flow.
• Turn the main burner to the “Start” or “High” setting.
• Ignite the grill by pushing the ignition button. If your igniter is not functioning, you can start the grill using a long lighter or a match through the grill’s match-light hole.
• Once the grill ignites, turn on additional burners as needed.
• Close the lid and let the grill pre-heat for 10 to 15 minutes until it reaches your desired temperature (usually between 400° and 500°F)

If the grill does not ignite, turn off the burner and wait at least one minute to allow the gas to dissipate.

If you smell gas after lighting, do not move the grill. Move away from the grill and call the fire department.

Keep children and pets away from the grill, and remember that grill surfaces can remain hot for an hour or more after the grill is turned off.

Causes of Propane Grill Accidents

Unfortunately, propane grill accidents are linked to burn injuries, emergency room visits, and even fatalities every year. Some of these injuries are caused by malfunctioning grills.

Common defects that can affect grills include defective connections, grill defects, defective tubing and valves, and “venting” accidents. “Venting” can occur when gas leaks through a safety valve, typically due to increased pressure in the propane tank resulting from higher temperatures. Propane tanks can also leak into enclosed spaces, like garages, which can pose a serious fire hazard and cause an explosion if a spark or static charge ignites the gas.

What To Do When a Summer BBQ Goes Wrong

If you or a loved one was injured by a fire or explosion caused by a defective grill, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The product defect lawyers at Muth Law, P.C., have over four decades of experience representing people throughout Michigan who were seriously injured by defective products.

A product liability claim arises when a person is seriously injured because a product was negligently designed, unreasonably dangerous, or lacks proper warnings. People harmed by the defective product can seek compensation for their injuries.

Our lawyers have tried hundreds of cases throughout Michigan and have been individually recognized for their outstanding work in personal injury litigation. We understand Michigan product liability law inside and out and use our expertise to help people and families whose lives were affected by injuries caused by defective products.

Contact Muth Law Today

To speak to a defective product lawyer at Muth Law, call us today at 734-481-8800 or contact us online to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation.