7 Summer Barbecue Safety Hacks To Remember
The National Fire Protection Association reported that one of the most common causes of summer home fires is grilling. Often, these accidents are caused by user error. To avoid mishaps, here are some tips on how to enjoy a safe barbecue this summer.
Grill outside.
Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use. Be sure to keep your grill away from your house - the farther, the better.
Remove decorations or other flammables.
Hanging baskets, curtains, plants, wind chimes, and pillows may look pretty but can easily be set on fire. Make it a point to remove decor and other combustible materials from near the grill.
Keep your grill clean.
Grease and fat build-up provide extra fuel and can lead to flare-ups. It’s important to remove any fat residue, grease, or char after use. For charcoal grills, allow the coal to cool off before disposal.
Regularly check for propane leaks.
Make sure to check the gas tank hose. This can be done by applying a soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there’s a leak, the solution will bubble. Another sign that there’s a gas leak is the smell of gas near the barbecue or a flame that won’t light.
Don’t let kids play near the grill.
Kids love exploring and aren’t fully aware of the dangers of hot grills. To prevent possible accidents and burns, never let kids near the grill even after you have finished cooking.
Keep a spray bottle of water, a bucket of sand, or a fire extinguisher handy.
Make sure that you have something to extinguish flames nearby. That way, when you have flare-ups, you can address it instantly.
Don’t overload your grill with food.
We know that eating barbecue is as exciting as cooking it. However, remember to avoid loading your grill with too much food. Too much fat dripping from your meat can cause flare-ups that could light other nearby objects.
These easy-to-follow barbecue safety tips can help ensure that you and your family get to enjoy a safe barbecue season. Share your barbecue stories in the comment section below.
Grill outside.
Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use. Be sure to keep your grill away from your house - the farther, the better.
Remove decorations or other flammables.
Hanging baskets, curtains, plants, wind chimes, and pillows may look pretty but can easily be set on fire. Make it a point to remove decor and other combustible materials from near the grill.
Keep your grill clean.
Grease and fat build-up provide extra fuel and can lead to flare-ups. It’s important to remove any fat residue, grease, or char after use. For charcoal grills, allow the coal to cool off before disposal.
Regularly check for propane leaks.
Make sure to check the gas tank hose. This can be done by applying a soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there’s a leak, the solution will bubble. Another sign that there’s a gas leak is the smell of gas near the barbecue or a flame that won’t light.
Don’t let kids play near the grill.
Kids love exploring and aren’t fully aware of the dangers of hot grills. To prevent possible accidents and burns, never let kids near the grill even after you have finished cooking.
Keep a spray bottle of water, a bucket of sand, or a fire extinguisher handy.
Make sure that you have something to extinguish flames nearby. That way, when you have flare-ups, you can address it instantly.
Don’t overload your grill with food.
We know that eating barbecue is as exciting as cooking it. However, remember to avoid loading your grill with too much food. Too much fat dripping from your meat can cause flare-ups that could light other nearby objects.
These easy-to-follow barbecue safety tips can help ensure that you and your family get to enjoy a safe barbecue season. Share your barbecue stories in the comment section below.
