When it’s a nice summer day, there’s nothing like grilling your favorite meals with family and friends! While grilling is fun, there are many precautions you should take to reduce the risk of fire or injury. The last thing you want is to turn this fun summer activity into something gone bad!
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, about 5,700 grill fires take place on residential property each year, causing an annual average of $37 million in damage. About half of the injuries involving grills are thermal burns.
Safety Tips (Source: https://www.nfpa.org/grilling)
- Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should ONLY be used OUTDOORS
- The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and overhanging branches
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area. It can be fun to show your kids how you are preparing their food or teaching them how to grill. Keep in mind the dangers of their curiosity and getting close to the hot surface.
- Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the cooking grate and in trays below the grill. If not cleaned properly, excess grease can catch on fire.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
- If you use a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. If the flames start to go out, don’t add other types of starter fluid or flammable liquids to it.
- Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
- Be ready to put out the fire. This is one of the most commonly overlooked safety tips. Keep a bucket of sand next to your grill. Never use water to put out a grease fire. Having baking soda on hand to control a grease fire is always a good idea.
For more information, visit https://www.nfpa.org/.