Are you someone who loves outdoor barbecues? Every year, millions of Americans safely enjoy outdoor barbecues, however, accidents do happen. Insurance policies do provide financial protection in the case of mishap, however, ensure that you will have trouble-free cooking fun all summer long by reading these tips from PropertyCasualty360 before you light up the grill!
Familiarize yourself with City/Town Grilling Restrictions. Some cities and towns have restrictions in regards to grilling, which may result in fines. The Town of Ocean City does not allow grills or other outdoor cooking equipment to be used within 20’ of multi-family dwellings. Multi-family dwellings are those buildings that contain three or more dwelling units, which may include condominium and townhouse complexes.
Grill maintenance and storage. When setting up at the start of each grilling season, the following tips should be followed to help ensure everyone’s safety:
- Check grill hoses for cracks, holes and brittleness. Look for blockages as well, especially in the Venturi tube that runs to the burners. Clear blockages—caused by food drippings, spiders or insects—with a wire or pipe cleaner.
- Run a soap solution (one part liquid soap, one part water) along hoses and at connections, then open the valve at your tank and check to make sure that gas isn’t escaping, which will be indicated by bubbles at the leaking points.
- Store propane tanks outside, away from your house. Always check to make sure valves are firmly turned off.
Safe barbecuing practices. When barbecuing, use caution and follow these guidelines:
- Operate your barbecue on a level surface, away from your house, garage and landscaping. Do not move the grill once it is lit.
- Keep children and pets away from the grill.
- Protect yourself—or whoever is doing the grilling—with a heavy apron and oven mitts that reach high on the forearm.
- For charcoal grills, use only lighter fluid designed for grilling. Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids, and never add additional lighter fluid once the fire has started.
- Never grill indoors or in enclosed areas. Charcoal grills produce carbon monoxide (CO) fumes, which can be fatal in unventilated areas.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
For more advice, and what to do in case of an accident, access the full article here. If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, please contact us at 410-213-5600 to review your policy.
