| It's getting to be that time of the year when the thoughts of just about everybody turn to grilling something outside for dinner. Unfortunately, as yummy as this sounds, like all good things, it does carry some risks. According to our contacts at the Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 22000 injuries each year are attributed to grilling incidents.
So here are some things to consider, making sure that the only things that get flame-seared are the things you plan to eat!
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the gridirons and in trays below the grill.
• Place the grill well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Vinyl siding burns.
• Never leave your grill unattended when in use.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.
• Avoid clothing with hanging shirt tails, frills, long billowy sleeves, or dangling strings that easily meet scorching surfaces or open flames and catch fire.
For propane grills
• Check the gas tank and hoses for leaks before first use.
• Make sure that the tanks are in good condition, no dents, dinks or damage.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it. Confined fumes can explode.
For charcoal grills
• If you use starter fluid when charcoal grilling, only use charcoal starter fluid --NEVER GASOLINE !!!
• Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals cool completely and then dispose of them in a metal container outdoors and away from the house. Believe it or not they can-- and frequently do-- re-ignite.
For more information on grilling safety also visit our friends at the NFPA and US Fire Administration at the links below.
Bon Appetit’ ! |
