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 injures. Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.
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 eaves and overhanging branches.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
- Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
- NEVER leave your grill unattended.
- Always me 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 a starter fluid, use ONLY charcoal starter fluid. NEVER add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- Keep charcoal fluid out of 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 you are 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 profession before using it again.
- If the gas leak does not stop, call the fire department.
- If you smell gas while 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 and gas off and wait AT LEAST 15 minutes before re-lightning it.
Source: NFPA