Summer Grilling Safety
Summer grilling can be dangerous for even a seasoned griller. Knowing general summer grilling safety tips will help ensure you and your family understand the precautions to take.
- In 2006-2010, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 8,600 home and outside fires. These 8,600 fires caused an annual average of 10 civilian deaths, 140 civilian injuries and $75 million in direct property damage.
- More than one-quarter (28%) of the home structure fires involving grills started on a courtyard, terrace or patio, 28% started on an exterior balcony or open porch, and 6% started in the kitchen.
- Flammable or combustible gas or liquid was the item first ignited in almost half of home outdoor grill fires. In almost half (46%) of the home outdoor fires in which grills were involved, 53% of the outside gas grills, and 26% of gas grill structure fires, the fire started when a flammable or combustible gas or liquid caught fire.
Below are just a few tips on grilling safety:
– Always read the owners manual. This will ensure a proper installation and usage.
– Grilling is for outside use only. Open flames and smoke need to be properly ventilated and should always be placed outside.
– Place grills away from homes and structures. Wind can blow sparks that can easily ignite structures.
– Make sure to place your grill on a stable surface. Each leg of the grill should be on equal plane to ensure coals and flames stay within the grill.
Grill Safety Tips
– Use proper grilling accessories. Long handled utensils will make sure that your hands and arms are properly protected from open flames.
– Don’t wear lose clothing. Tie back shirts or aprons that can get caught in the wind or catch sparks. Try to buy flam retardant mitts and aprons to ensure safety.
– Know how to control a fire. If a flare up does occur remove food if possible or use a fire extinguisher. Sand or a garden hose will help if you don’t have an extinguisher.
– Purchase a splash mat to place under your grill. This will prevent sparks or hot oil from falling onto areas such as your deck. Hot grease can easily start fires if not properly handled.
– Always be aware of your grill. Set timers for each type of food and never leave the grill unattended. Old grease and oil can flare up unnoticed.
– Explain to young children grilling safety. Allowing them to play or sit around a hot grill can cause danger to them.
These easy grilling safety tips will help you remember to keep your cooking safe. Proper grilling safety will ensure your summer is safe and fun.
If you experience a grill fire and need fire restoration, don’t hesitate to call a professional immediately.
