Close call with fire, the mess and what we have done about it

[JimskyD]

We live full time on our 2018 Classic 30. We have a BBQ plumbed through a 15' hose to the propane connector on the yoke. We use the BBQ frequently. I am careful to always turn the propane source off when not using it and make sure the BBQ itself is placed well away from the trailer skin. We have it set up under our awning.

I had just started the BBQ and was waiting for it to warm up. I got distracted by a phone call and eventually smelled something burning. I went outside and the BBQ had dark, sooty smoke and flames coming from the back of the BBQ. I grabbed our factory stock fire extinguisher and discharged the contents into the BBQ through various vent holes. I did not open the lid of the BBQ. The fire did indeed go out. The knobs had melted off. Everything was really hot.

I was left with a large (10ft) zone of fire extinguisher powder. I examined the BBQ and apparently the accumulated grease in the bottom of the unit had caught fire.

I bought a new BBQ with better grease handling features. As for the spent fire extinguisher, I remember 25 years ago needing a fire extinguisher on a sailboat. I used the factory extinguisher and had the same powdery mess to clean up. I was never really able to get all the powder out of cracks, etc. At that time I bought a couple of 5 lb. Halon extinguishers. I never had to use them but they were no-mess and had more capacity than the factory units. We practiced space-evacuation drills and added a fire blanket for an additional firefighting option.

Fast forward to the trailer. I looked at the factory wood bracket and it seemed a close fit to a 5lb extinguisher body. I had a Halotron extinguisher from the boat that fit the space perfectly. Our trailer now has a clean, higher capacity fire extinguisher for the next time we have to deal with fire suppression situations.

[twbucksr]

I always preheat my Weber Q to 450-500 degrees F before I start grilling. The fire you described would have started whether you were looking at it or not so don’t blame yourself for not being there at the start.

Since you have undoubtedly thrown this POS grill into the nearest dumpster, please divulge the brand and type of grill that caught fire and the grill maintenance scheduled (or lack there of) performed before the fire so we can all learn from your mistake.

If you are trying to sell me a fire extinguisher, this thread is not the place.

[uraljohn]

We have a Weber Q1000. Great little grill. I thoroughly clean it out after every use. Chicken, fish, burgers, steak, does not matter, Complete wipeout and wash the grill racks. New tin foil in the drip pan makes it ready for the next delicious meal. No surprise fire that way.

[powerwiz]

Smart move on changing out the type of extinguisher that you use. ABC types while cheaper and found everywhere have the nasty side effect of leaving behind a corrosive powder. You should remove all traces of that powder.


You might also consider just getting a propane tank for your grill. While not as convenient you can place it far away from your dwelling.

[KBAR]

I would recommend a few bottles like the below:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002U0KGDY...dea_lv_dp_vv_d

[ROBERT CROSS]

Originally Posted by JimskyD

Fast forward to the trailer. I looked at the factory wood bracket and it seemed a close fit to a 5lb extinguisher body. I had a Halotron extinguisher from the boat that fit the space perfectly. Our trailer now has a clean, higher capacity fire extinguisher for the next time we have to deal with fire suppression situations.

^
Yep
👍
Bob
🇺🇸

[powerwiz]

Originally Posted by KBAR

I would recommend a few bottles like the below:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002U0KGDY...dea_lv_dp_vv_d

That is a brilliant solution. I ordered me some for the house and inside my truck. Thanks!

[waninae39]

1st upgrade the fire extinguisher . to a larger one
time is not on yor side
the small ones stop too early for most people
cheap insurance

2nd clean off the racks each time.
not only fire safer, its health safer so food does not go moldy sitting around

3rd get a bbq with a removeable drip tray

[GCinSC2]

Jim,

Sorry about the close call. No monday night QB comments here and no way did I see this as a sales pitch. Had no clue ABC's residue had bad manners.

Thanks for sharing, something to keep in mind.

Gary