Outdoor Grilling Safety
The smell of burgers and hot dogs on the grill is a welcome smell after the long cold winter in northeast Ohio. Before lighting your gas or charcoal grill for the first time this season, follow some safety tips to ensure your safety, and the safety of others around you. Always inspect your grill prior to using it. Make sure all the fittings are tight, drip pans are clean, and there are no insect nests in the burners. Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors, well away from your home, porch, deck railings and overhanging branches. Always keep children and pets away from the grill area, and never leave your grill unattended. Although propane grills have become more popular, some still prefer charcoal.
Charcoal grills
- – If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- – Keep charcoal fluid and matches out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
- – When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container and away from all combustibles.
Propane grills
- – Check all hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
- – Never use matches or a lighter to check for leaks Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles.
- – If your grill has a gas leak, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
- – Don’t light the grill with the lid closed.
- – If the grill fails to light, keep the lid open for at least five minutes to allow residual gas to disperse before attempting to relight.
- – Turn the valves off when you’re finished cooking.
- – Make sure the gas grill is shut off and cooled off before covering your grill after use.
- – Do not smoke while handling the propane cylinder.