Safety Tips for Grilling Season

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Grilling Safety Tips

Nothing says backyard fun like firing up the grill and cooking outdoors. Nothing puts a damper on that fun, however, as much as a grill fire. To keep the party going in Lake Ida, FL and the local fire department at bay, here are a few safety tips for grilling season.

1. Establish a Perimeter

An outdoor grill needs space to breathe. Anything that puts off that much heat should be kept at a respectable distance from both objects and people. Keep children and pets away from the grill any time it is in use. To avoid a BBQ fire when you open the lid, make sure there is plenty of space for it to vent. Fire restoration experts recommend that you not use the grill while it is under low-hanging eaves or branches of a nearby tree. You want to keep BBQ smoke damage off your house. Save the char for the steaks.

2. Monitor Flammable Substances

No matter what kind of grill you own, you likely have some substance, whether gas or charcoal lighting fluid, to get the fire started in the grill. To keep a manageable flame from turning into a full-fledged grill fire, you need to monitor these substances. If you smell gas when your propane grill is in use, don't ignore it. If necessary, call the fire department. Keep lighter fluid out of the reach of children.

3. Clean After Use

Built-up grease is a fire waiting to happen. Clean your grill after every use. A wire brush and water with a little dish soap is all it takes to ensure that your grill is clean and ready to store. Most grills have removable grates that make cleaning even easier. Just take them off, scrub them and rinse them with a garden hose.

Avoiding a grill fire is actually pretty easy. You only need to be mindful of your surroundings and make sure you don't let grease build up over time. By following these tips, you can have a safe and happy grilling season.