Some of the most memorable summer moments occur when friends and family gather in the backyard for a barbecue. These gatherings can make for a great summer; however, it is important to remember safety when barbecuing.
At Thorp and Trainer, we want to ensure this is your best and safest summer. Please review the followingsafety tips to help keep everyone and everything safe at your next barbecue.
- Clean the grill – The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported that 22% of structure fires were due to the grill not being cleaned. The 10 minutes it takes to clean the grill before use will not only make the food you’re grilling taste better, it will also protect you, your family, and your home.
- Never abandon it – One in six backyard grilling fires begin when someone turns their back on the grill. Fire can spread quickly, but you can avoid this from happening by keeping your eye on the grill.
- Keep the grill at a distance – An alarming 17% of grill-based home fires start because of the grill being placed too close to flammable material. Keep your grill away from walls, low overhangs, fences, dry grass, or anything else that is flammable.
- Be cautious of whether it’s a gas or charcoal grill – It is important to inspect the propane tanks of gas grills before use. A spray bottle of soapy water can help spot tiny leaks – douse the suspect area with several sprays of soapy water and look for bubbles forming after the spray settles. Soap increases the surface tension of the water, making the bubbles formed by escaping propane gas persist for a few seconds and stack on each other, making it easier to spot leaks.
- Trim excess fat – While fat is needed to keep the meat juicy and flavorful, if it is too fatty it can cause flare ups and fires. Keeping a spray bottle near your grill is a good idea to stop flare ups immediately, while they are still controllable.
- Keep children away from the grill – Children under the age of five account for 35% of contact-type burns each year. While kids are playing in the backyard, they can easily forget to be cautious around a hot grill. Make sure your children are kept at a safe distance and that hot coals are disposed of properly and away from areas of play.
We are dedicated to helping you protect what matters most. Contact us at 401.596.0146 to discuss additional ways to safeguard your family and property. At Thorp & Trainer, “Your Security Is Our Concern.”