Grilling safety tips

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Enjoy grilling this season, and be safe!

Warm weather has finally arrived, and cooks from all over the area will be getting out there grills.  Here's a few safety tips:

• An outdoor grill should be just that - used outdoors.  Never use a grill in a garage or carport.  It's not only dangerous, but the soot can stain the structure.
• Place the grill on a flat, even surface.  Cooking on an uneven surface is risking a tip over, but also invites the hot dogs to roll right off the grill.
• Keep the grill at least eight feet away from any structure, the further the better.  Like the wildfires out west, it takes just one flareup to jump any containment you think you had.
• Check for leaks in gas grills.  Spray soapy water on hoses and connections.  Any bubbling means you have a leak.
• Open gas grill lids prior to turning on gas.  Fumes can build up and create a fireball when lit.
• Keep all flammable items away from the grill.  Starter fluid, umbrellas, and even loose clothing can catch on fire if the flareup's large enough.
• Do not leave grills unattended while cooking.  Kids or pets can accidently touch the grill and get hurt, or knock the grill over altogether.  Approximately 2000 children under five are hurt each year because of this.
• Keep a water spray and/or fire extinguisher close by to control flareups.
• Clean the grill after each use, to prevent grease build up.

Happy grilling!