Summer BBQ Grilling Safety Tips

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Fire safety for summer BBQ's!

Grilling outside on a hot summer day is one of the most popular cooking methods in the summer. However, each year in the U.S. there are 10,200 home fires that are caused by outdoor grills. According to the National Fire Protection Association, July is the peak month for grill fires. Grill fires can start easily and spread quickly when the gas or charcoal is placed too close to any fire hazards. Here are 9 grilling safety tips for your summer BBQ's. 

1. Only use grills outside

You might think it is okay to grill inside of your open garage or under a covered balcony, but propane and gas, charcoal grills are strictly designed for outdoor use where there is plenty of ventilation. If there is any combustible materials that surround or hang over the grill, it can catch fire easily and quickly. Make sure that the area over top and around the grill is clear.

2. Place your grill away from your home

BBQ grills are often placed just outside the back door or on the back deck. You should avoid placing your grill in these areas because it can pose a potential fire hazard. Grills that are placed too close to the house or wood structures can heat up adjacent materials and cause a fire to start. You want to make sure you keep at least 10 feet from your home or other structures. 

3. Make sure your grill is located on a flat and level surface

If you place your grill on a slope or other uneven surfaces, it can tip over easily and cause a fire. Make sure that your grill is et up on a stable surface such as a concrete pad so it remains level while in use. 

4. Check your grill for leaks 

If you store your grill inside during the winter, make sure to check it over thoroughly when grilling season in the summer begins. A leak in the gas lines can cause propane or natural gas to build up inside when the lid is closed. Check the gas lines to make sure that they are free of leaks before using the grill. Make sure you also always open the lid of your grill before lighting. 

5. Always clean your grill after use

When you BBQ regularly, it causes grease to build-up on the grill plates and collect inside the grease tray. If it is not cleaned, the build-up can then act as fuel and catch fire while the grill is in use. Clean your charcoal or gas grill after each use with a grill brush and empty the grease tray when it begins to fill up. 

6. Never leave your brill unattended while in use

Never leave the grill unattended while you are cooking food. Grills use high heat and open flames to cook food, and when left unattended can become a safety and fire hazard. If you have to leave the grill, ask another adult to watch the grill for you.

7. Wear appropriate clothing

Clothing that has long sleeves or pieces that dangle can catch fire easily when too close to an open flame. When grilling food, wear clothing that won't interfere with the cooking process. Also, make sure that any apron strings are tied back away from the front. If a piece of clothing does catch fire, remember to stop, drop, and roll to extinguish the flames quickly. 

8. Keep a spray bottle on hand

It is common for grills to flare up as fat drips from meat as it is cooking. This can cause a section of the grill to remain on fire as it burns away. If left alone, the flames will continue to burn and cause excess smoke to billow out from under the lid. Make sure you keep a spray bottle filled with water beside your grill so that you can quickly extinguish smaller flames before they begin to spread. 

9. Always have a fire extinguisher close by

If a fire where to break out, follow these tips on how to put out a grill fire and ensure you have First Alert EZ Fire Spray within reach. It is simple to use, just point and spray to extinguish the fire. The spray is also quick and easy to clean up after use. It's small, compact size makes it the perfect addition to your grilling set to help keep your loved ones safe.

Following these safety tips and having the right protection will help you and your family enjoy a safe grilling season this summer!