HCFR, Department of Health to Demonstrate Grilling, Fireworks Safety
Hillsborough County, Fla. (June 29, 2022) - As the July 4th weekend approaches, many Hillsborough County residents and visitors are planning fun outdoor activities. Grilling and fireworks are often part of get-togethers with family, friends, or neighbors on Independence Day. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and the Florida Department of Health want to ensure residents and their families have a safe holiday by practicing safety with fireworks, grilling, and food.
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) and the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County will have experts available on Thursday, June 30, to demonstrate and discuss how residents can safely enjoy grilling and fireworks over the Independence Day weekend and beyond. Media is invited to Station 16, 9205 Kevin Dr., Riverview, FL 33569 from 9-10:30 a.m.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 64% of American households have a gas grill, and grill fires are most common in July. Unfortunately, grill-related accidents are common. In a typical year, more than 10,000 fires are started by grills, and 19,000 people are hospitalized because of mishaps involving grills. If you're grilling outdoors this weekend, HCFR has some tips on keeping your family and home safe.
Keeping food safe starts with proper preparation. As summer temperatures rise, so does the growth of foodborne germs. The Florida Department of Health will cover this and other essential food-handling topics.
Each July 4th, thousands of people are injured using consumer fireworks, most often children and teens. Most people do not realize the risks associated with fireworks, including severe burns, blast injuries, fires, and even death.
What: Grilling, food handling, and fireworks safety demonstrations and interviews
When: Thursday, June 30, 9-10:30 a.m.
Where: Station 16, 9205 Kevin Dr., Riverview, FL 33569
Who: The following subject matter experts will be available for interviews:
- Grill Safety, Propane/Charcoal: HCFR Fire Chief Jones or HCFR Fire Marshal Chief Tammy Zurla
- Safe Food Handling: Florida Department of Health PIO Ryan L. Terry and Health Educator Consultant Kelsey Christian
- Fireworks: HCFR Lead Fire Investigator David Tucker