Happy Summer, friends! Hot dogs, hamburgers, BBQ, oh my! You, like many others may be firing up the outdoor grill this summer season. July is a month when a record number of fires are reported, whether it’s from fireworks, grilling or cooking incidents.
Grills are a leading cause of structure fires. Grills can also cause personal injury in the form of physical burns. It’s important to keep safety in mind. It’s easy to get lax and distracted during the flurry of summer activities.
Here are some tips from the NFPA to help you grill safely as you enjoy summer with friends and family:
- It might seem obvious, but propane and charcoal grills should be used outdoors. They should be used well away from your home, which many of us are guilty of not doing from sheer convenience. Grills should be in use away from porches, railings, low overhanging items, plants and trees, and so on.
- Your grill should never be left unattended while in use or while it’s still significantly hot.
- Kids and pets should be kept at least 3 feet away from a hot grill.
- It’s good to keep a clear pathway around the grill, and keep it clear of tripping hazards.
- A clean grill is safer than a dirty one. Buildup of grease and fat can be hazardous.
- Use long-handled grilling tools in order to stay away from the heat and flames.
Tips for Propane Grills
- Test your propane grill when you fire it up for the first time in a while. Check the host for leaks.
- Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
- If you smell gas while cooking, you need to get everyone away from the grill and call the fire department.
Tips for Charcoal Grills
- If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- Do not use gasoline or any other flammable liquid except charcoal starter or lighter fluid.
- Keep charcoal fuel and lighters out of reach of children.
- Properly dispose of your charcoal after you’re done. The coals need to completely cool before you place them in a metal container.
- Before going to sleep or leaving the area, douse the fire with water and make sure the area is cool to the touch.
Contact our team to learn more.
