A good BBQ cookout is the perfect spring and summer activity, combining good food, good weather, and good company. If you are new to grilling, there are a lot of choices to consider, such as what type of grill you want and what brand to choose. But, whether you pick out a Weber grill or a Napoleon gas grill, one consideration is non-negotiable—you need to grill safely, starting with following these 5 safety tips:
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1. Only use your grill outside and away from your home
While this advice may seem obvious, many enjoy grilling in their garage or in a covered area. Unfortunately, this can be dangerous, as grills need plenty of space for ventilation and having any combustible material near the grill, including the materials in your house, is a fire hazard. Therefore, the grill should be kept at least 10 ft away from the home and the area around and above the grill should be kept clear.
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2. Check for leaks
If you use a gas grill, it is important to regularly check for gas leaks, as a gas line leak can cause propane or natural gas to build up in the grill when the lid is closed, creating a fire hazard. To check for leaks, rub a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water on your grill’s hoses and connections. Then, turn the gas on with the lid open. If large bubbles form, the hoses have leaks that need to be fixed or the connections need to be tightened. While this annual inspection should be enough, always open the lid of the grill before lighting it to release any gas build-up, and take caution if you smell gas near the grill.
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3. Clean your grill after use
If you grill regularly (or even semi-regularly), it is important to clean your grill after you use it to prevent grease build-up, as built-up grease on the grill and in the grease tray can be a fire hazard. After cooking and removing all food, clean the grill plates with a grill brush and empty out the grease tray. If you have a charcoal grill, allow the coals to cool off completely before disposing of them into a metal container.
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4. Never leave your grill unattended while in use
Even if you keep the grill far from anything flammable, check the gas lines regularly, and clean it consistently, the high heat and open flames of your grill can always be a fire and safety hazard. It is therefore vital that the grill is always supervised by someone who can reliably monitor and control it. If you are grilling, plan ahead to have all other duties completed before firing up the grill, or arrange for someone else to take care of non-grilling matters. This is especially important if you have children or pets that need to be kept away from the grill.
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5. Keep a spray bottle and a fire extinguisher on hand
Even with regular maintenance and careful monitoring, a grill fire can occasionally get out of control, so it is important to always have fire extinguishing equipment nearby. A spray bottle can calm small fires that flare up as fat drips from the cooking meat. In the case of a larger fire, always keep a fire extinguisher on hand and be prepared to use it. While they tend to be simple point and spray mechanisms, if you have not read the instructions or are unsure of how to use the extinguisher, it is generally safer to call 911 immediately in case of a fire.
