How to Have the Perfect Summer BBQ
Posted on Thu, Jun 23, 2011
Did you know that according to the NFPA, on average U.S. fire departments respond to approximately 7,700 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues per year? These 7,700 fires caused annual average $70 million in direct property damage. In 2009, 17,700 patients went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills.
With summer officially in full swing and July 4th just a few weeks away, it’s prime time for BBQs! It’s also time to review grilling safety tips to keep your family and property safe. Take a look at our grilling safety tips for planning a safe, fun summer BBQ:
- When lighting your propane barbecue, make sure all the connections are secure and open the lid and strike your match or lighter BEFORE turning on the gas.
- Wear an apron so as to protect yourself from grease, hot debris, etc. Also, wearing oven mitts can be a great safety precaution as well.
- Never leave your grill unattended. Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
- Make sure that you grill within a safe distance away from your house, deck railing and away from overhanging branches or nearby shrubbery. Especially with a gas grill, it is important that you are far enough away from the structure of your home in case of an accident.
- When using a charcoal grill, let the coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container.
- Be cautious where you place your grill after you are done cooking. Obviously, this grill will be hot for a while after you have finished cooking, be wary of its placement, especially when having a backyard get together where children will be present.
Besides taking proactive safety measures the day of your big BBQ, make sure your home is protected with comprehensive, effective home insurance. Call us for more information on homeowner’s insurance and what kind of coverage you can get for fires, liability issues, and more.