Summer is here. The days are warm and pretty soon the iconic smell of summertime barbequing will drift through the air.
We love good food and good times at Sidle Insurance, but as experts in risk management, we also encourage safety and practical care.
Here are some quick grilling safety tips to keep in mind this summer. Even grilling experts can use some refresher tips!
1. Only grill outdoors. Not only is it a fire hazard to grill inside, but grilling in an enclosed space can allow for carbon monoxide (an incredibly harmful gas) to accumulate. Grill outside on a flat surface away from buildings and flammable objects.
2. Once the grill is lit, have someone watching it at all times. It can be dangerous to leave a lit grill unattended.
3. Use grilling utensils that have long handles. They can help you keep a safe distance from the flames, heat and hot grease splatters.
4. Always have a (non-expired) fire extinguisher on hand. Grease fires are a potential risk when grilling; they are very dangerous and a fire extinguisher is the safest way to put one out.
5. Keep children away from the grill. Summer barbeques, especially family reunions and parties, likely mean kids will be there and having a good time playing and running around. A fun summer day with the kids can quickly turn upside-down if someone bumps into the grill and gets hurt.
Make it a rule that the children keep their games at a safe distance. This includes after you’re done using the grill and it’s still cooling off.
6. Never move a hot grill. The kids aren’t the only ones at risk when the grill is hot. Before putting it away, let it cool down first. Should someone stumble or lose their grip while moving a hot grill, they could get seriously burned or even injure someone else.
7. Clean your grill with the proper tools. Old, overused wire brushes can lose bristles which get left behind on the grill. These metal bristles could wind up getting stuck in food on the grill and are very unsafe to swallow. Consider cleaning your grill without a brush or with a sturdy brush that you replace regularly.
Barbeques and cookouts are meant to be relaxing and fun. Don’t ruin the fun with a trip to the ER. Be safe and keep these tips in mind. For more tips on safety and insurance, check out our blog directory.
And of course, have a wonderful summer!