Enjoy Outdoor Grilling, and Stay Safe
No longer is summer the only season for Americans to grill that burger, steak or hot dog. Many of us now fire up our grills sooner in the year and delay putting them away until the first frost, and that’s why grill safety is more important than ever.
Whether you use charcoal, wood, gas or electricity for grilling, a moment’s inattention can spell disaster. To ensure safe cookouts, make sure someone tends the fire at all times. Here are some safety tips to consider:
- Keep grills away from combustibles
- Check hoses to make sure gas is not leaking from your grill
- Never store propane cylinders in buildings or garages
- Enforce a “kid-free zone” of 36” around the grill
- Never add starter fluid when coals have already been ignited
- Keep the grill clean
Did you know?
- Gas grills have a higher fire risk than charcoal grills; leaks and breaks are the leading cause
- Placing combustibles too close to heat, and leaving cooking unattended, are the two leading causes for charcoal grill home fires
- Half of all gas grill and charcoal grill home fires begin on an exterior balcony or unenclosed porch
- Wall coverings, exterior trim, and plants are the leading items first ignited in home outdoor charcoal grill fires