Want to know what can ruin a summer barbecue faster than rainstorm? Fire! Be careful when you're grilling up those tasty burgers for friends and family, June and July hold the highest occurrence of grill-related fires and accidents.
General Tips:
- Keep your grill far enough away from the outside of your home. Check for close siding, eaves, deck rails and even low-hanging branches.
- Keep all things that could catch fire away from the cooking space--potholders, wooden utensils, paper plates, etc. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Stay near the grill while cooking; the leading cause of kitchen fires is unattended cooking. The danger exists outside at the grill as well.
- Proclaim a three-foot perimeter around the grill as the kid- and pet-free zone.
- Find grilling tools with handles long enough that you can keep a distance from heat and flames.
- Remove grease buildup from the grill and trays below so it does not ignite.
Charcoal:
- Store starter fluid away from the heat source and out of reach of kids and pets.
- Don't use any other flammable liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to start the grill flame. Add it to the coals before they have been ignited, not afterward.
- When done grilling, allow coals to cool completely before disposal in a metal container.
Propane:
- Check the propane hose for leaks before using the grill. The best way to do this is to apply a light soap and water mixture to the hose and then turn the propane tank on. Any bubbles can indicate that there is a leak. Immediately turn off the propane and grill. You should get replacement parts and/or call the fire department if the leak does not cease.
- If you smell or sense gas while cooking, immediately turn off the gas tank and burners and get away from the grill. If the smell persists, call the fire department. Do not touch the grill.
- Only use equipment bearing a mark from an independent testing lab. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for setting up and maintaining the grill.
- Never store propane cylinders in homes, garages or buildings. If you store your gas grill inside during winter months, disconnect the propane and leave it outside.
The safety of your friends and family do not come second to a great meal. Always make sure that things are in good order before use and ask someone if you are not sure. In the event of a fire, make sure all people and pets are far from the flames and any potential explosives. If you need any more tips, call us today!