With barbeque season already here, property owners should heed the following safety precautions to keep their families and property safe.
- Gas grills present an enormous fire hazard, the following precautions are recommended specifically when using gas grills:
- Store gas bottles outdoors and never near the grill or any other heat source. In addition, never store or transport them in your car’s boot.
- Make sure to completely turn off the gas after you have finished, or when you are changing the bottle. Even a small gas leak can cause a deadly explosion.
- Check for damage to a gas bottle before refilling it, and only refill bottles from reputable suppliers.
- Never use a gas barbecue grill on a terrace, balcony, or roof, as this is dangerous.
- To inspect for a leak, spray a soapy solution over the connections and watch for bubbles. If you see evidence of a leak, reconnect the components and try again. If bubbles persist, replace the leaking parts before using the grill.
- Make sure connections are secure before turning on the gas, especially if the grill hasn’t been used in months. The most dangerous time to use a gas grill is at the beginning of the barbeque season.
- Ignite a gas grill with the lid open, not closed. Gas can accumulate beneath a closed lid and explode.
- When finished, turn off the gas first, and then the controls. This way, residual gas in the pipe will be used up.
- Charcoal grills pose a serious poisoning threat due to the venting of carbon monoxide (CO). These grills can also be a potential fire hazard. Follow these precautions when using charcoal grills:
- Never use a charcoal grill indoors, even if the area is ventilated. CO is colourless and odourless, and you will not know you are in danger until it is too late.
- Use only barbeque fire starters to ignite the grill, and don’t add lighter fluid to an open flame. The flame can follow the fluid’s path back to the container as you’re holding it.
- Let the fluid soak into the coals for a minute before igniting them to allow explosive vapours to dissipate.
- Be careful not to spill any fluid on yourself and stand back when igniting the grill. Keep the charcoal lighter fluid container at a safe distance from the grill.
- When cleaning the grill, dispose of the ashes in a metal container with a tight lid, and add water. Do not remove the ashes until they have fully cooled.
- Fill the base of the grill with charcoal to a depth of no more than 50mm.
- Electric grills are probably safer than gas and charcoal grills, but safety precautions need to be used with them as well. Follow these tips when using electric grills:
- Do not use lighter fluid or any other combustible materials.
- When using an extension cord, make sure it is rated for the amperage required by the grill. The cord should be unplugged when not in use, and out of a busy footpath to prevent tripping.
- As always, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Safety Recommendations for General Grill Use
- Always make sure that the grill is used in a safe place, where kids and pets won’t touch or bump into it. Keep in mind that the grill will still be hot after you finish cooking, and anyone coming into contact with it could be burned.
- If you use a grill lighter, make sure you don’t leave it lying around where children can reach it. They will quickly learn how to use it.
- Never leave the grill unattended, as this is generally when accidents happen.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby.
- Ensure that the grill is completely cooled before moving it or placing it back in storage.
- Ensure that the grill is only used on a flat surface that cannot burn, and well away from any shed, trees, or shrubs.
- Clean out the grease and other debris in the grill periodically. Be sure to look for rust or other signs of deterioration.
- Don’t wear loose clothing that might catch fire while you’re cooking.
- Use long-handled barbecue tools and flame-resistant oven mitts.
- Keep alcoholic beverages away from the grill; they are flammable!
In summary, property owners should exercise caution when using any kind of grill, as they can harm life and property in numerous ways.
