Public affairs: Grilling safety for Labor Day by Mattison Holland

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Grilling, although fun and popular, is also a dangerous fire hazard. This is especially when individuals aren’t making sure to do their part in preventing an accident. Knowing how to be safe while making memories over a delicious barbeque is key to success. 

The end of summer heat is something we should take advantage of before the temperature drops. What better way to do that other than having a cookout with a few friends. 

According to statistics by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), “Ten thousand six hundred home fires are started by grills each year, on average. July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August.”

This means we have to be extra careful during these months in order to preclude any mishaps. The First Alert website informs us of some safety tips for this outdoor hobby. 

Some of these tips include only using grills outside, placing your grill away from your house, keeping your grill on a level surface, making sure to check your grill for leaks, always cleaning your grill after use, always having a fire extinguisher on hand, and making sure to never leave a grill unattended. 

All of these tips have one thing in common; that being they all can keep you safe only as long as you make sure to pay attention to the little things. 

Safety should always be a priority no matter what activity you’re participating in. Safety isn’t complicated — it’s just paying attention to detail.

No matter what we do, there are always going to be times when we fall short of doing our jobs. One of those times could occur while you’re grilling in your backyard with a few relatives.

In case of an unexpected emergency, it’s of utmost importance that we know how to handle any situation. We specifically need to be prepared to put out an unanticipated grill fire.

Dixon Energy provides an article regarding “Extinguishing a Grease Fire on Your Propane Grill”. In order to anticipate a potential fire the article says to keep your phone near just in case you have to dial for an emergency dispatcher. It also suggests you “Keep a fire extinguisher, gloves and either baking soda, sand or kosher salt near your grill to extinguish flames.”

However, if a fire does breakout the first thing you’ll want to do is “turn off the grill’s burners.” Next ¨Remove the food and smother the flames by throwing baking soda, sand or kosher salt over it.¨ says the Dixon Energy blog.

Dixon Energy makes note of an important factor; ¨NEVER use water to extinguish a grease fire or flare up.¨ This is because the water can splash up burning oil further spreading the fire, which could cause it to become out of control.

Sometimes grill fires spread quickly and uncontrollably. In those circumstances we have to evacuate the area and call on the fire department for help. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

For some, grilling is a fun extracurricular activity. Here are some tips to a delicious barbeque by the Food Network.

First off, you never want to use a dirty grill. Make sure to clean it before use, so that the flavor of your current meal is fresh and isn´t imposed upon by last nights´ dinner.

Another tip is to not move your food around on the grill. ¨In general, the fewer times you flip something, the better (once is ideal for most meats). If the meat is stuck to the grill, let it cook more — it will unstick itself when it’s ready for flipping.¨ says the Food Network.

One thing the Food Network says you should invest in is a meat thermometer. This is so you can be sure it´s cooked correctly. It’s difficult to know if the meat is the right temperature only by touching it.

The Food Network also says ¨Keep a spray bottle handy for flare-ups. Flames are not your food´s friends — they will char it unpleasantly. Keep a spray bottle filled with water handy; this will allow you to dampen flare-ups without interfering with heat.¨

Lastly, something to keep in mind when serving a crowd is to keep it simple. “Managing numerous cooking times for different proteins and veggies can easily become stressful, and it can result in errors and overcooking. Keep the protein options down as much as possible, and offer variety in some interesting side dishes, sauces, or condiments.¨ states the Food Network.

With these handy tips in mind, you should be confident to serve up some killer barbecue. Hopefully, it’s easier to please company and wow them with your grill skills.

Grilling is a fun activity to participate in when you know what you’re doing. However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be unsafe. This is why it’s important to consider all possible disasters and take caution in knowing how to grill safely year round.

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By Mattison Holland