This is the perfect season to fire up the grill for picnics, cookouts and outdoor parties. But before you put on your apron and load up the burgers and hotdogs, it’s important to be mindful of potential grilling safety hazards.

To help you have a safe grilling season, we’ve got some tips to keep in mind:

  • Each year, grills cause nearly 9,000 home fires.1 Check your gas gill for cylinder hose leaks or breaks, and make sure the grill lid is open when turning on the gas.2
  • Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, keep it at least 10 feet away from your house or any other structure that can catch on fire. Don’t grill in a garage, on the porch or in a breezeway.3
  • Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the trays and grid.4
  • Never leave the area unattended and ensure children and pets stay away from the grill.5
  • Wear clothing that isn’t loose-fitting such as shirt tails or frills that could catch fire easily.6
  • Always have an extinguisher ready.6

Now that you have these helpful insights, it’s time to get grilling!

 

1. https://www.travelers.com/resources/home/safety/grilling-safety-tips.aspx
2. http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Newsroom/News-Releases/1997/CPSC-Releases-Grill-Safety-Tips/
3. http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/outdoors-and-seasonal/grilling
4. http://abcnews.go.com/Business/ten-tips-safe-summer-barbecues-learn-dos-donts/story?id=13918382
5. http://www.tdi.texas.gov/news/2016/tdi06162016.html
6. http://www.hpba.org/consumers/barbecue/general-grilling-safety

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