Safe Summer Grilling Tips

6/13/2024 (Permalink)

Summertime is here and many of us will be looking forward to Grilling in our backyards for family cookouts! But a fire anywhere else but in your grill, can make your family outing a less than memorable experience. With approximately 9,000 fires started by grills each year, SERVPRO® doesn’t want your summer to be ruined by one as well. To keep you and your family safe while grilling, follow these general guidelines.

General grilling tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

Propane grills

Before you use your grill:

• Check the major connection points between the gas (propane) tank hose and the regulator and cylinder, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.
• Check the gas (propane) tank hose for the potential (gas) leaks. To do that:
• Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
• Turn the propane tank on. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see).
• If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.

Charcoal grills

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid, never gasoline. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• If you are using an electric charcoal starter, be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Of course, accidents do happen. If you do find yourself the victim of a grill fire and in need of help, contact SERVPRO of Oak Park / Ferndale  at 248-246-0790, 24/7, 365. The sooner you call us, the sooner we will get your summer back to sunshine, family fun-days, and backyard barbecues, “Like it never even happened.”