As another summer ends, many people are already breaking out the fall-scented candles and preparing for the latter half of the year. Before we dive into sweet spices and yuletide carols, you may be planning to have loved ones over for one last barbecue as a salute to summer. Before the charcoal is lit, take down some of these grilling safety tips:
- Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors.
- Place grill away from your home, deck railings, plastic siding and out from underneath any overhangs or branches.
- Keep your barbecue grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. You can use an onion or a lemon to clean your grill racks – in addition to adding a little more flavor to your meat of choice.
- Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
- If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the barbecue grill area.
- When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
- Have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire and a fire extinguisher nearby for other fires. If you do not have a fire extinguisher, keep a bucket of sand next to the grill. Never use water to put out a grease fire.
- Stand at least three feet from hot outdoor objects and limit alcohol consumption around these areas.
If your backyard barbecue does not go as planned, we have several urgent care and emergency care locations to treat scratches or upset stomachs. If you get burned, UofL Health – UofL Hospital – Burn Center is here to address and treat even the worst of burns.
For more information on our Burn Center or to find an urgent care location near you, visit our website at UofLHealth.org.
