The Gull's Call - Oct/Nov/Dec 2026

CommunityNews A Grill Can Become a Serious Fire Hazard Courtesy of Davis-Stirling A RECENT CALIFORNIA condo fire is a sobering reminder of how quickly a backyard BBQ can turn into a condominium complex, injured firefighters, and displaced more than 150 residents. The fire is believed to have started when a resident left a propane grill unattended. While this incident did not occur in Harbor Bay, it’s an important reminder for all of us to take propane and natural-gas BBQ safety seriously. GRILLING SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU According to the National Fire Protection Association, grills, hibachis, and barbecues caused an average of more than 12,000 home fires annually from 2020 through 2024. Gas grills were involved in approximately 76% of those fires. If you use a propane BBQ, please remember to: • Never leave a lit grill unattended. • Keep grills away from homes, fences, landscaping, and other combustible materials. • Check propane hoses and connections regularly for leaks or damage. • Keep children and pets safely away from the grill. • Turn the grill off completely when finished. • Never use a propane grill indoors, in a garage, or in an enclosed area. FIRE PITS ARE NOT PERMITTED Please remember that Section 6.3(N) of the Community CC&Rs prohibits all exterior fires except for barbecues. This means fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas, and other outdoor recreational fires are not permitted in Harbor Bay Isle. disaster. On August 2, a propane barbecue on a first-floor patio reportedly sparked a six-alarm fire that destroyed an entire 51-unit

This restriction is important for both safety and compliance with our governing documents. If you are considering adding any type of outdoor cooking or heating equipment, please make sure you understand the applicable requirements before purchasing or installing it. KNOW THE RULES BEFORE YOU FIRE IT UP City of Alameda Fire Code requires a minimum 10-foot clearance between an active BBQ grill and combustible materials. For gas grills, applications must show the location of the gas line. Gas-line modifications require a Plumbing Permit and installation of an earthquake actuated or excess-flow gas shutoff valve. In addition to City requirements, Harbor Bay residents must follow the Community CC&Rs and any applicable Project Architectural Rules before installing or modifying outdoor cooking equipment. A grill may seem harmless, but an unattended flame or gas leak can quickly cause extensive property damage and put neighbors, homes, and first responders at risk.

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