Portable Grill Safety

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Food plays an important role in outdoor festivities throughout the year and portable grills make it possible to be away from home. While they are smaller, they still have risks. Here are some tips on how to be safe during your adventurous summer!

Environment

• Only grill where there are no fire restrictions in place. Check to make sure you are permitted to grill in the area.
• Check fire danger ratings in the area to check if weather or other factors make it dangerous to light a flame.

Safely Starting Charcoal

• Charcoal Chimney starters allow you to ignite the charcoal using newspaper. Use a long match to avoid burning your fingers when lighting the paper.
• Only use a lighter fluid intended for charcoal grills.
• Never add charcoal starter fluids to coals or kindling that has already been ignited.
• Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids except charcoal starter or lighter fluid to start a charcoal fire.

Cooking Safety

• Place the grill away from overhanging branches, foot traffic, lawn games, and play areas.
• Keep children and pets, anything that can burn, and oven mitts and towels at least 3 feet away from open flames and heat.
• Use long handled grilling tools to have clearance from you and the heat and grill.
• Never leave the fire unattended.

Disposing of Charcoal

• Douse the fire with water and make sure it is cold to the touch before leaving the area.
• Empty coals into a metal container with tight-fitting lid that is used to collect coal only. Place the container away from anything that can burn.
• Never empty coal directly into a trashcan.
• Store charcoal and starter fluids away from children and heat sources.

For more information, visit Outdoor cooking safety with portable grills | NFPA