Outdoor Grilling Safety
One of the most popular ways to cook food is outdoor grilling. However, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. It can be hot, causing fires and burn injuries. Learn simple safety tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.
Consider these statistics from National Fire Protection Association research:
- July is the peak month for grill fires.
- Grills had not been cleaned in 20 percent of the fires.
- More than 25 percent of these fires started on an exterior balcony or open porch.
- Gas grills were involved in 9,079 home fires per year.
- In 2017 – 2021 an average of 22,155 patients per year went to emergency rooms due to injuries involving grills.
Follow these Grilling Safety Tips:
- For propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks prior to use.
- Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and trays below the grill.
- Place the grill well away from buildings, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
- Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.
- If you use starter fluid when charcoal grilling, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never ADD charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to a fire.
- Never leave your grill unattended when in use.
- When done charcoal grilling, let the coals cool completely, dispose in a metal container.