Tips to Grill Safely & In Style
Who in your family or circle of friends is known as the barbecue master? Perhaps you should forward this to him or her.
As easy and relaxing as barbecuing may seem, did you know that serious barbecue accidents can occur without the proper safety precautions?
Here are six safety tips that every barbecuer should keep in mind, no matter if they’re the local neighborhood grill-master or son-in-law firing up his new barbecue for the first time.
- Location is Everything: Always make sure to choose a safe location for the grill. Placing a grill on a terrace or patio, balcony or porch is almost asking to start a fire. Keep the grill in an open spot and never leave the grill unattended.
- Keep it Flat: Make sure the grill is placed on a level surface far away from any structure near your home (again, location is everything).
- No Kid or Pets: All children should be informed to stay away from the grill and should know that it has a very HOT surface that will burn their hands if touched. Also, keep pets away from the grill to make sure an animal doesn’t accidentally get burned or knock the grill off-kilter.
- Outside ONLY: Grill outside only! Never use a grill in a garage, tent or other enclosed space, even if it’s well ventilated. There is always a risk that a harmful buildup of carbon monoxide could possibly occur and grilling outside eliminates this risk completely.
- Keep the Gas Under Lock and Key: Always keep the gas and supplies safe. Find a safe place to store the grill and propane tanks outside and away from your home.
- Clean the Grill: Keep your grill clean by removing grease from the grills and the catch trays. If using a charcoal grill, remove the coals by soaking them in water to ensure they cool completely and place them in a closed metal container away from your home, garage or deck.
Do you have any grilling tips, tricks or horror stories to add? Share them in the comment boxes below!