Outdoor grilling is one of the most popular ways to cook food. Who doesn’t like firing up the backyard barbecue and loading it with hot dogs, hamburgers and ribs? However, precaution and awareness should always be part of your grilling plans. The peak month for grill fires is July, and roughly half of the injuries involving grills are thermal burns that could have been avoided.
With that in mind, here are 10 reminders to help you enjoy safe and fun outdoor grilling.
Clean your propane grill after each use to avoid flare-ups when cooking. Leftover grease causes about 20 percent of grill fires— more than any other factor.
Keep your grill outdoors, positioned at least five feet from the house. It should be on a level surface that is clear of outdoor furniture, overhead branches, or other potential fire hazards.
Before cooking, always check hoses for kinks, cracks or damage.
Keep a fire extinguisher near your propane grill; make sure everyone in the household knows where it is and how to use it.
Stay close to the grill when cooking and keep it in sight at all times.
Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
Keep your propane grill cover open until you’re sure the grill is lit—even if you have electric ignition.
When finished cooking, turn off the burner controls and close the cylinder valve.
Always store propane cylinders outdoors in an upright, vertical position.
When transporting your tank, put it in a secure, well-ventilated place in your vehicle. Place it upright with the valve off, and take it directly to the refilling location. Do not leave a tank in a vehicle for long periods of time during warm weather!
If you have any questions about safety for your propane grill, or if you want to learn more about your options in new grills, please contact your local propane company. They’re ready to help you.
