When you're firing up the propane grill, remember to follow some basic safety tips to keep safe. (image: seriouseats.com)
With record temperatures and extreme drought conditions in some southern states, Texan fire officials have issued some Labor Weekend safe grilling tips.
As holidaymakers crack a bruski and fire up the propane grill, the Travis County Fire Marshall’s Office warns barbecued rib lovers to take some basic precautions. The dry hot conditions are the perfect recipe for brushfires so extra care needs to be taken to prevent your holiday grill-up sparking a fire emergency.
Take precautions and be safe. And remember, Labor Weekend marks the end of summer so get out there and fire up those grills!
Grilling Safety Tips:
* Never grill inside, as the grill can pose both a fire hazard and potentially emit toxic gases indoors or in enclosed spaces like a tent.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
• Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area: declare a three-foot “safe zone” around the grill.
• Use long-handled grilling tools to give plenty of clearance from heat and flames when flipping burgers.
• Periodically remove grease or fat buildup from below-grill trays to prevent them igniting.
• Check the gas cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. If your grill has a gas leak and there’s no flame:
o Turn off the gas tank and grill.
o If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
o If the leak persists, call the fire department.
* Of course propane grills are self igniting. But if you’re using charcoal, never add extra starter fluid after the grill is already lit.
* When finished, be sure to dispose of the ashes in a metal container on a fire-proof surface until cool. And don’t dump ashes in a dumpster.
• Use only equipment with the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it.
• Never store propane gas cylinders in buildings or garages.