Grilling Safety Tips for Summer Barbecues

Summer is upon us. The sun is shining, pools are open, and it is time to practice the most hallowed of summertime traditions: the BBQ cookout. Before you entice all your friends over with the smell of grilled meats and vegetables, there are some simple safety precautions that everyone should take while operating a grill.

Always grill outdoors in well-ventilated areas. Both charcoal and gas grills can produce deadly carbon monoxide gas as well as other toxins that should not be directly breathed in. When choosing a location to set your grill up, make sure smoke has an easy path to escape.

Clean your grill thoroughly after every use. This is not just to make the food you cook taste better each time, but any grease left on the grates could cause flare-ups and a potentially dangerous fire hazard. 

Check all connections for leaks if you have a gas grill. Simply create a soapy water solution in a spray bottle and apply the solution around all gas connections. Turn on the gas and look for bubbles. This method helps to easily make sure all connections are tight and there is no gas leaking out where it could catch on fire from a spark. 

Don’t leave the grill unattended while it is not only lit but also when it is still hot after you are done cooking. Always set up your grill away from the main areas of your cookout so no one can accidentally bump into a hot surface and get burnt. 

Following these simple steps to grilling safety will ensure that you and your guests have a safe time enjoying all of your delicious food.