Safety Tips for Barbecue & Grilling

An estimated 5,700 grill fires occur on residential properties each year in the United States.

Almost half (49%) of grill fires on residential properties occur from 5 to 8 pm.

Thirty two percent of grill fire start on patios, terraces, screened-in porches, or courtyards.

The Following tips can make your grilling experience safer:

• Protect yourself by wearing a heavy apron and a oven mitt that fits high up over your forearm.
• Barbecue grills should be kept on a level surface away from the house, garage, landscaping, and most of all children.
• With gas grills, make sure the gas cylinder is always stored outside and away from your house.
• Make sure the valves are turned off when you are not using them.
• Check reguarly for leaks in the connections using a soap and water mix that will show bubbles where the gas escapes.
• Replace leaky hoses before using your grill.
• Clean your gril regularly. If you allow grease and fat to build up on your grill, they provide more fuel for a fire. Grease is a major source of flare ups.
• Keep a spray bottle handy. That way if you have a minor flare up you can spray it with water.