There’s nothing quite like firing up the grill on a warm evening—whether it’s for burgers, veggie skewers, or that secret rib recipe. But before you get too comfortable with those tongs, it’s worth noting that grilling accidents are more common than you might think.
According to the latest data from the National Fire Protection Association, over 10,000 home fires are caused by grilling mishaps every year in the U.S. And while your grilling technique may be top-notch, a few safety slip-ups can quickly turn dinner into disaster.
Before your next backyard barbecue, brush up on these essential grilling safety tips:
1. Keep Your Grill Clean
Grime and grease buildup is one of the leading causes of grill-related structure fires, accounting for nearly one in five of these incidents. Clean your grill grates and grease traps after each use to keep things safe and sanitary.
2. Protect Your Eyes
If you’re using lighter fluid, handle it with care. Make sure your hands are clean and avoid touching your face or eyes after handling it. If lighter fluid splashes into your eyes, rinse immediately with cool water for at least 15 minutes and seek emergency medical care. Also, be mindful of smoke and grease. Both can be irritating or harmful to your eyes during a long grill session.
3. Mind the Distance
Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home, garage, deck railings, or any flammable structures. Never grill inside garages, under covered patios, or in carports… even if it’s raining.
4. Inspect Your Grill Regularly
Leaky hoses, rusted parts, or broken connections can all be fire hazards. Regularly check your grill following the manufacturer’s guidelines, especially before the first use of the season.
5. Stay Close While Grilling
Never leave a lit or hot grill unattended. Keep kids and pets at a safe distance, and never try to move a hot grill, even after the flames are out. Remember, grills can stay hot for up to an hour after use.
6. Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Don’t rely on a water hose or bucket. A fire extinguisher approved for grease and electrical fires is your safest bet in case something goes wrong. You will never regret taking this extra safety precaution.
7. Practice Safe Food Handling
Don’t cross-contaminate. Use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked meat. Always grill your meat to the correct internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness. And finally, don’t leave food out in the sun for more than an hour or two.
Whether you’re using charcoal, propane, or a fancy new pellet grill, safety should always come first. By following these simple precautions, you can enjoy every cookout this summer with peace of mind, and maybe even bragging rights for the best burger on the block!
