Outdoor Living: Grilling Safety Tips

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Grilling Safety Tips

Grilling is a fun way to enjoy outdoor living. Some people look forward to grilling season all winter long. Others brave the elements and enjoy grilling and grilled foods all year long. Whichever group you belong to, grilling safety is important to enjoy it and not experience a tragedy. Here are some outdoor living grilling safety tips:

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Before Grilling

 

  • outdoor living grilling safety tipsCheck the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Be sure the venturi tubes – where the air and gas mix – are not blocked.
  • Check that your grill is clean, free of grease and fat buildup. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to check and/or clear  the tubes into the burner for any blockage from insects, spiders, or food grease.
  • Check gas lines for leaks before the first time you use your gas grill for the summer. Applying soapy water on the hose will help you to spot leaks; they will create small air bubbles. If you can’t stop the leak by shutting off your grill and gas line, stay clear of the line and call the fire department.
  • Don’t wear loose fitting clothing.
  • Regardless of the type of grill, never grill indoors. Flames emit carbon monoxide, a lethal and virtually undetectable gas.
  • Keep the grill a safe distance from your home to reduce the risk of fire.
  • Make sure the grill is placed a good distance away from the home, deck railings, overhanging or overgrown branches, eaves, and any other areas that could be potentially hazardous.
  • Keep pets and children away from the grilling area.
  • If alcohol is being served, that the person doing the cooking is not intoxicated
  • No matter what type of grill you own, make sure that you keep it on a level surface. Always grill a safe distance away from flammable objects and never leave your grill unattended.

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While Grilling

 

  • grilling safety tipsUse caution when adding an accelerant, such as lighter fluid, to your charcoal BBQ.  Do not add lighter fluid directly to hot coals, as the flame could travel up and burn your hand. Use lighter fluid sparingly.
  • Never use gasoline or kerosene.
  • Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas – carbon monoxide could be produced.
  • Remember: ‘Stop, Drop and Roll’ in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 9-1-1 if you need immediate emergency attention.
  • Never step away from the grill and leave it unattended.
  • If you smell gas, get away from the grill and immediately and call the fire department.
  • Use quality, proper barbecue utensils, with  long enough handles so that you don’t burn yourself.

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After Grilling

  • Be careful when disposing hot coals: make sure you douse them with enough water and stir them to make sure that the fire is out completely, never place them in containers that could easily ignite (ie: plastic, paper, or wooden containers).
  • Coals can reach temperatures up to 1000 degrees. Before disposal, allow the coals to cool off for at least 48 hours or place them in a non-combustible container filled with sand or water.

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Tank safety

 

  • tank safetyWhen storing a tank, always keep it outdoors and in an upright position.
  • Never store a spare gas container under or near the grill or indoors.
  • Never store or use flammable liquids, like gasoline, near the grill.
  • Do not overfill the propane tank.
  • You should transport the container in a secure, upright position.
  • Never keep a filled container in a hot car or car trunk as the heat will cause the gas pressure to increase, which may open the relief valve and allow gas to escape, and minimize the amount of time you spent traveling with a filled tank in your vehicle.
  • Whether you use a gas barbecue grill or are a traditionalist, using a charcoal grill, enjoy a fun, delicious and safe grilling season by following these tips.

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Popular Grilling and Barbecue Cookbooks:

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