Nothing goes together better than Texas and outdoor grilling. Hamburgers, hotdogs, brisket, steaks, and even shrimp can taste better with a little smoke added. Unfortunately, there are quite a few grilling accidents every year. The NFPA reported that every year, there are over 10,000 home fires, thousands of injuries, several deaths and almost $150 million in damages from grilling accidents.
Before you start that grill, there’s a few things to keep in mind:
Gas Grills
Always light the fire with the lid open. Gas can accumulate under the lid and violently ignite. Also, when you open the lid, the excess gas can flare up and burn you.
Check the gas connections regularly. Focus Fire & Safety can show you how to do this, if you need. 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 the soap forms large bubbles, that’s a sign that the hoses have tiny holes or that the connections are not tight enough.
Charcoal Grills
Never use flammable liquids like gasoline or kerosene to pre-soak the briquettes. Use lighter fluid and only use as directed.
Never add lighter fluid to warm or hot coals.
When lighting, make sure lighter fluid is well away from the grill.
Use a long match or lighter to start the briquettes.
Consider wearing a flame retardent glove when lighting.
Don’t throw hot or warm ashes away. If you must handle the hot ash, soak with water before disposal.
General Outdoor Grilling Safety Tips
Always use your grill in a well ventilated area. Grills produce carbon monoxide, an odorless, deadly gas.
Keep your grill at least 10 feet from your home.
Always keep a fire extinguisher handy for large fires. Know how to use it before you need it.
Keep a water spray bottle handy for small flare ups.
Proper clothing is recommended. No loose sleeves should be worn.
Create a safe zone around the grill. No kids, pets, flammables or furniture should be in this safe zone. Hanging baskets, pillows and art look great but provide fuel for a fire.
Never leave your grill unattended.
Don’t get angry with me about this one. Don’t ever grill while intoxicated!
Clean your grills regularly. A build up of fat can cause dangerous flare ups.
These outdoor grilling safety tips are easy to follow and will let you enjoy that hamburger even more knowing that the ones you love will be safe. Happy grilling, Texas style!
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