Grilling Safety Tips
Grilling Safety Tips
May is a wonderful month in Colorado to break out your grill and get it fired up! You want to enjoy your outdoor space as much as possible this season; grilling outdoors is a great way to do so.
At Swingle, we want you to be as safe as possible when enjoying your outdoor space and when you and your family are using a grill.
From 2004 – 2008, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,700 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year, including an average of 3,200 structure fires and 4,500 fires outside. Gas grills were involved in an average of 6,200 home fires and charcoal grills were involved in 1,300 home fires.
Here are a few tips regarding grill safety:
- Propane and charcoal grills must ONLY be used outdoors. If used indoors you have a dangerous situation involving smoke and fire damage.
- Position the grill away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging tree branches and anything else that may catch fire.
- Position your grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
- Keep children and pets away from grilling area.
- Keep your grill clean by removing grease, fat buildup or food particles from the grills and in trays below the grill.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
Gas / Propane Grill
- Check the gas tank hose for leaks each year before first use. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If you find a leak turn off the gas tank.
- If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department.
Charcoal Grill
- If you use starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- Keep charcoal fluid out of reach of children and away from heat sources.
- When you are finished grilling, make sure you let the coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container.
Now that you have safety in mind, get outside and fire up your grill! Enjoying your outdoor spaces this year and be safe!
Safe? Ready? Great. Okay, now try out these recipes:
