How to Keep a Backyard Barbecue Safe

Hosting a backyard barbecue is a great way to bring family and friends together to enjoy the outdoors. Fresh air, great conversation and the mouthwatering smell of food sizzling on the grill all make the cookout an event to look forward to. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement, but it is important to remember that several precautions must be taken in order to ensure a safe event that doesn't go "up in smoke."

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Metal container with locking lid (charcoal grills only)
• Grill brush
• Grill cover

Before the Barbecue

1. Inspect your grill before each use. If using a gas grill, make sure the connections are not loose. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the ash bin is empty to avoid a possible surprise re-ignition.

2. Make sure the grill is set up a minimum of 10 feet away from buildings (including the garage), overhangs, canopies, shrubs or trees.

3. Wear appropriate barbecue attire because, believe it or not, attire is a safety issue as well. While you are proudly wearing your personalized "Master of the Grill" apron (or the like), make sure there are no fastening strings left untied. Also, make sure the clothing you wear under your apron fits snug enough not to dangle too close to the flames.

4. Keep a fire extinguisher or water hose within arms' reach at all times and make sure that you have read and understand the directions on the fire extinguisher.

During the Barbecue

5. Use only cooking utensils specifically designed for barbecuing. These spatulas, tongs and forks have longer handles on them to prevent you from being scorched by the open flames. They can also tolerate higher temperatures and the handles don't get as hot as your everyday household utensils.

6. Avoid using too much lighter fluid. Use only the amounts specified on the bottle and only apply before the grill has been lit.

7. Keep all children and pets away from the barbecue grill. Appoint an adult to keep an eye on the kids and make sure they are at a safe distance. This way you won't be distracted by trying to corral the kids away from your grill zone and you can focus on creating your culinary masterpiece.

After the Barbecue

8. Let your grill cool for several hours before covering. Children and pets still need to steer clear of the grill during this cooling process.

9. Remove ashes from a charcoal grill only after they have completely cooled and there are no glowing embers. These ashes need to be put into a metal container with a locking lid. It is recommended to add water in the container as an extra precaution.

10. Shut off the gas at the grill itself and the tank if you are using propane. Failure to do so could lead to leaks and other hazardous situations.

11. Clean your grill thoroughly after each use and cover and store it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Failure to do so can lead to grease and food buildup which can pose a fire hazard the next time you grill.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your local sanitation department for how to properly dispose of ashes and tanks.
• Always store propane away from heat sources.