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A Newsletter by the City of Saco, Maine	March, 2007	Return to newsletter index

Summer Safety Tips

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As summer approaches, the Codes Enforcement Department is urging homeowners to take the time to check their outdoor areas for potential safety hazards. Proper inspections now can help to keep your family and friends safe in the future.

Porches, Decks and Balconies
Porches can be at risk of collapsing if they are not properly constructed or if they are old. A common safety hazard occurs when porches are nailed to buildings rather than being attached with the proper anchors or bolts. Nails are a poor method for attaching porches to buildings because they work their way loose over time. Other safety hazards to look for are:

• Split or rotting wood
• Wobbly handrails or guardrails
• Loose, missing or rusting anchors, nails or screws
• Missing, damaged or loose support beams and planking
• Poor end support of the porch deck, joists or girders
• Excessive movement of the porch when walked on
• Swaying or unstable porches

Building or repairing to code, which requires a building permit and an inspection, will help ensure that the porch is safe. The Building Codes specify the amount of weight a porch is required to support. However, be careful not to allow the porch to become overcrowded. If the people on the structure have difficulty moving about, the porch could be exceeding its capacity.

Grills
Grilling on or near combustible areas can be a fire hazard. It not only puts your family and visitors at risk, but, especially in condos and apartments buildings, can put your neighbors in danger as well. The most common grilling hazards are open flames and heat generated in the grill base that can be transferred to the wood of a porch or the home's siding, causing a fire. When grilling, follow these safety tips:

• Place the grill away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches
• Periodically remove grease or fat buildup
• Use only proper starter fluid and store the can away from heat sources
• Check propane cylinder hoses for leaks before use
• Do not move hot grills
• Dispose of charcoal properly, keeping ash containers outside and away from combustible construction