Grill Safety

6/5/2017 (Permalink)

With the weather growing warmer and grilling becoming the cooking method of choice for many people it becomes crucial to remember grilling on Charcoal grills and or gas grills can present a variety of safety hazards. So before you heat up your grill, here's a few tips on grilling safely.

Grill Placement

Never use your grill indoors, in a garage, or under anything that could catch fire.

Place your grill at least ten feet away from your home, or any other structures or buildings.

Keep a spray bottle and fire extinguisher nearby at all times.

Charcoal Grill Safety

Make sure you use your grill in an open space. Charcoal grills burn off dangerous carbon monoxide gas that builds up in closed areas.

Never use any flammable or combustible liquid to start the fire. These starter fluids could cause an uncontrollable flash fire; add more charcoal or use kindling instead.

After grilling, allow charcoals to cool completely, soak them in water, and then store or dispose them in a metal container so they don't reignite.

Gas Grill Safety

DO

1. Follow the grill manufacturer’s instructions and keep written materials handy.
2. If the igniter no longer works, replace it in accordance with the grill manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Keep the top of the grill open until you are sure the grill is lit, even if you have an electronic ignition. 4. Cover disconnected hose-end fittings with plastic bags or protective caps to keep them clean when the grill is not in use.
4. Store propane cylinders outdoors in an upright (vertical) position.
5. If you smell gas, and it is safe to do so, turn off the cylinder valve, turning it to the right (clockwise). If you are unable to turn off the valve, immediately leave the area and dial 911 or call your local fire department. Before you use the grill again, have a qualified service technician inspect your grill and cylinder.
6. Consult a qualified service technician if you are having grill or propane cylinder problems.
7. Keep your grill clean to prevent flare-ups.
8. Check for knots or kinks in gas hoses.
9. Make sure the area around the grill is free of leaves or anything else that could ignite.

DON’T

1. Smoke while handling a propane cylinder.
2. Use matches or lighters to check for propane leaks.
3. Pour an accelerant such as lighter fluid or gasoline on the grill.
4. Allow children to tamper with the cylinder or grill.
5. Use, store, or transport propane cylinders near high temperatures (this includes storing spare cylinders near the grill).
6. Transport propane cylinders in your trunk. Instead, keep in a cool place, such as an air-conditioned car.
7. Move a lit grill.
8. Leave a lit grill unattended.
9. Attempt to adjust any gas containers or hoses while the grill is lit.
10. Grill in a covered patio or garage, even with the doors open, because gases can build up.

Maintenance and Personal Safety

Check your grill frequently for cleanliness. Make sure no animals or bugs have crawled inside.

Don't allow fat and grease to buildup. A hot grill can ignite fat and grease and start a fire.

These simple steps may be able to prevent you from having to deal with a home fire started by your grill. If disaster were to strike SERVPRO of Napa County stands ready and is Always Here to Help.