Your Barbecue Safety Checklist

The arrival of summer means many things, but one of the most exciting is the start of grilling season! Longer evenings and action-packed weekends also mean burgers, hot dogs and roasted veggies out on the grill — nothing’s more delicious. But a grill also means heat, open flames, and propane or charcoal, so it’s important to remember basic grill safety tips.

When you’re thinking about barbecue safety, there’s a lot to consider. From propane gas grill safety and charcoal grill safety to just making sure everyone knows how to act around the grill, having a checklist and proper education is the key to having a great grill summer. Here are some safety grilling tips that will help you have your best summer yet — and a delicious one, too.

As you’re thinking about keeping the whole family safe this summer, don’t forget essential insurance coverage — reach out to Farm Bureau.

Tip 1: Keep Your Grill at Least 10 Feet From Structures

Whenever you’re grilling, make sure you’re away from your house, garage and shed, and avoid grilling under eaves or patio coverings. That will ensure that any errant sparks or accidents don’t become much bigger problems.

Also, check for any overhead tree branches that could catch fire in the event of a flare-up. Homeowners insurance may cover some of these problems, but you don’t want to have to find out.

Tip 2: Stabilize Your Grill

It should be obvious, but you don’t want a wobbly grill, especially when you’re flipping burgers. Ensure grilling safety by keeping your grill on a flat surface where it’s less likely to move, slide or topple over.

Tip 3: Keep Pets and Children Away From the Grill

A grill is hot, with fire, flame and dangerous substances nearby, not to mention the potential for sharp objects. Maintain a safe distance between your grilling workspace and areas where kids and animals are playing.

Likewise, teach young kids the importance of staying outside of the grilling area and remind them to be mindful of where they’re throwing balls and other toys. Instilling a healthy respect for the grill now will save everyone a lot of trouble later.

Tip 4: Wear Proper Clothing

Yes, it’s hot, but don’t get sloppy around the grill. Roll up your sleeves, tuck in your shirt and pull your hair back if necessary. If you’re wearing an apron, make sure the apron strings are tied and secured. You want to grill the food — not your shirt. 

Tip 5: Keep Your Grill Clean

A dirty grill is a dangerous grill (and won’t produce good food, either). Proper maintenance is essential to grill safety. Use a good grill brush to clean the grates before and after each use, periodically remove buildup in the grease trays while you’re using the grill and check your grill’s instruction manual for specific maintenance needs.

Tip 6: Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Having a fire extinguisher and knowing how to use it is an important fire safety tip that should be added to your barbecue safety checklist, too. Even a small grill fire can turn into a dangerous situation if you’re not prepared, so make sure your fire extinguisher is handy when you fire up the grill and have a plan for getting yourself and others to safety in case of a fire.

Tip 7: Don’t Leave a Lit Grill Unattended 

You don’t want to walk away from a grill once it is fired up. Prep everything you need before you start the grilling action so you don’t need to leave the grill unattended while you’re cooking.

Tip 8: Avoid Grilling While Intoxicated

It’s tempting to partake in the festivities while you’re hanging out by the grill. But save your merrymaking until after the crew has been fed and the grill is shut down. You don’t want impaired judgement while you’re dealing with flames, or if an emergency arises.

Tip 9: Use Propane Safely

If you’re cooking on a gas grill, check for propane leaks using the soap and water method. If a flame goes out when you’re grilling, wait at least five minutes before trying to re-light it. Never turn on the gas when your grill lid is closed. Do not store propane containers indoors or underneath your grill.

Tip 10: Use Charcoal Safely

If you’re cooking with charcoal, make sure you use proper charcoal starter fluid — not gasoline or kerosene. Keep starter fluid capped and away from your grill. Don’t add starter fluid to hot coals. Wait 48 hours before disposing of charcoal and ashes.  

Make Sure You’re Covered

Your Farm Bureau agent wishes you a delicious and safe summer! Schedule your annual SuperCheck to make sure your home — and the people in it — are protected with the right insurance coverage. Reach out to Farm Bureau today.