BBQ Safety

BBQ Safety Tips

Barbecue season is finally here! There are a few things to watch out for when cooking outdoors so that you enjoy yourself and stay safe!

Never use a propane barbecue grill on a balcony, terrace or roof. It is both dangerous and illegal.

Propane barbecue grills and no more than two (2) 20-pound propane tanks are allowed on the grounds of a one or two-family home, but be sure to follow the fire safety precautions below.

Only use a charcoal barbecue grill on a balcony or terrace if there is a ten foot clearance from the building and there is an immediate source of water (garden hose or four (4) gallon pail of water). Otherwise, such barbequeings is dangerous and illegal.

PROPANE GRILLS-The Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC) reports that more than 500 fires and 20 injuries occur every year from gas grill fires and explosions of grills that have not been used for several months.

Check the tubes leading to the burner regularly for blockages. Check with your specific grill manufacturer's instructions.
Check for leaks EVERY TIME you replace the cylinder. Pour soapy solution over the connections and if bubbles begin to form, there is a leak. Placing the soapy solution into a spray bottle makes it much easier to apply. If there is a leak, turn off the grill IMMEDIATELY and have it fixed. Do NOT use the grill until the leak is fixed.
Make sure all the connections are secure BEFORE turning on the gas.
Never start a propane grill with the lid closed. Gas can accumulate and when the grill is ignited may cause an explosion.
Only get propane from approved compressed gas suppliers.
Before getting a propane cylinder filled, check for any damages to it.
Never store propane cylinders indoors or near any heat source.
Never transport or store propane cylinders in the trunk of your automobile.
ALWAYS shut off the propane fuel at the grill and at the bottle after you have finished barbecuing. Otherwise, this will lead to fire hazards, such as leaks and faulty regulators.

ELECTRIC GRILLS

Keep the grill at least 10 feet away from any combustible material.
Do NOT use any flammable liquid to start an electric grill.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions in the use of an electric grill.
When using an electrical extension cord, make sure it is properly rated for the amperage required for the electric grill. Otherwise you could risk an electrical fire.

CHARCOAL GRILLS-The Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC) reports that every year about 20 deaths and 400 injuries are treated resulting from carbon monoxide poisoning from charcoal grills.

Due to the production of carbon monoxide when charcoal is burned, charcoal grills should not be used inside homes, vehicles, tents, or campers, even if ventilation is provided. Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, you will not be alerted to the danger until it is too late.
Never use any flammable liquid other than barbecue starter fluid to start a charcoal barbecue.
Use the starter fluid sparingly and never put it on an open flame.
Never add fire starter after you have started your barbecue to speed a slow fire or rekindle a dying fire. The flame can easily flashback along the fluid's path to the container in your hands.
Remove the charcoal ashes from the grill and place them into a metal container with a tight-fitting metal lid. Add and mix in water with the ashes, and set aside for several days. Dispose of the mixture in accordance with the Local guidelines.
Remove the ashes only after they are completely cooled and no warm embers remain.
Always soak coals with water after cooking; they retain their heat for long periods of time.
Keep damp or wet coals in a well ventilated area. During the drying process, spontaneous combustion can occur in confined areas.