Grilling Safety

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There's nothing like outdoor grilling. It's one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling. (Tips provided by N.F.P.A.)

Safety Tips

  • Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
  • The grill should be placed well away from the home,deck railings and out from under the eaves and overhang branches.
  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away from grill area.
  • Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from grills and in trays below the grill.
  • Never leave your grill unattended.
  • Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

Charcoal Grills

  • There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
  • If you use starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
  • Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
  • There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
  • When your finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Propane Grills

  • Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
  • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose.
  • A propane leak will release bubbles
  • If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. 
  • If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
  • If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
  • If you smell gas while you are cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
  • If the flame goes out, turn the grill off and gas off and wait at least 15 minutes before re-lighting it.

Facts

  • July is the peak month for grill fires.
  • Roughly half of the injuries involving grills are thermal burns.

Have a great summer, Grill Safely !!

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