As warmer weather hits, the smell of food on the grill fills the air. According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 9,000 home fires each year involve grills, so it’s important to brush up on barbecue safety.
Consider the following grilling safety tips:
- Grill outside only. Do not use your grill in a garage or other enclosed space, even if it’s ventilated.
- Choose a safe location. Keep your grill on a flat surface at least 10 feet away from your house, garage or other structures. Look above for overhanging tree branches, too.
- Check for leaks. Make it a habit to check the gas tank hose before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. If you see bubbles form, you have a propane leak.
- Open the gas grill lid before lighting it. If the lid is closed, gas could build up inside the grill.
- Never leave your grill unattended. Fires can double in size every minute.
- Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from where food is being prepared or carried. Reinforce to young children that the grill’s surface is hot.
- Wear the right clothing. Be sure your sleeves or apron strings don’t dangle over the fire. The same goes if you have long hair.
- Clean the grill regularly. Keep it clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and in the trays below the grill.
