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Five Outdoor Grilling and Barbecue Safety Tips
Warm temperatures mean more time to enjoy the outdoors, and that means more grilling and barbecues. Unfortunately, the number of reported injuries and house fires tend to go up as well around this time every year. Follow these grill safety tips to make your time outdoors enjoyable and worry-free.
  1. Grill away from structures - The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that 27 percent of home fires started by outdoor grills either began in a courtyard, terrace or patio, and 29 percent started on an exterior balcony or open porch. Set up your grill in an open area, away from overhanging tree branches and other flammable materials, and never use an outdoor grill indoors.
  2. Use charcoal safely - Charcoal grills are the cause of more fires than gas grills because of the use of lighter fluid. Lighter fluid can be extremely dangerous if not used properly. Follow the instructions carefully or use a chimney starter, which doesn’t require flammable liquids.
  3. Use gas safely - The number one cause of gas grill fires is an obstruction in the path of the fuel – usually behind, underneath or inside your grill where you don’t normally look when prepping it for use. This means you need to regularly inspect your gas grill for potential problems. At the first sign of a problem, turn off your control valves, burners and the fuel tank, and disconnect hoses. Remember, everything will be hot, so protect your hands, and always keep children and pets away from the grill.
  4. Check for gas leaks - You can make sure no gas is leaking from your gas grill by making a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water and rubbing it on the hoses and connections. Then, turn the gas on (with the grill lid open). If bubbles form, that’s a sign that the hoses are leaking or that the connections are not tight enough. Turn off the tank and have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
  5. Keep your grill clean - Remove grease or fat buildup from both the grill and the tray below the grill. Grease that collects in your grill builds up over time and can cause a flare-up during a cookout if it’s not cleaned up before grilling.
To ensure a safe and fun grilling season, make cleaning, maintenance and inspection of your grill a regular part of your routine.

Adapted from an article on thespruceeats.com by Derrick Riches.

This material is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, no representation is made as to its accuracy.  This material is not intended to be construed as legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult your legal, tax or investment professional for specific advice. 

 

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