Grill Safety Tips

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Grill Safety Tips

According to the National Fire Protection Association, outdoor grilling causes an annual average of 10,200 home fires, and 19,700 patients per year go to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills. Here are some grill safety tips that will help keep you and your home safe during barbecue season.

  • Grill outside and away from structures
    • Even though gas and charcoal grills are designed for being used outside, the NFPA reports that 27% of home fires started by outdoor grills began in a courtyard, terrace, or patio, and that 29% started on a balcony or porch. Make sure that the grill is placed well away from the home, deck railings, and away from eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Check for propane leaks on gas grills
    • Check the gas take hose for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there is a propane leak, the solution will bubble. Other signs of a propane leak include the smell of gas around the grill or a flame that will not light.
  • Keep your grill clean!
    • Stay vigilant on removing grease buildup from both the grill and tray below the grill. If you are using a charcoal grill, be sure to allow the coals to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
  • Be careful with starter fluid
    • If you use a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. If the fire starts to go out, do not add starter fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire – consider using charcoal chimney starters, which allows you to use newspaper as fuel.
  • Practice caution around the grill
    • Keep children and pets away from the grill area, and never leave your grill unattended!
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