Grilling out is enjoyed by many in the warmer months. A cookout brings the family together to enjoy nice weather and tasty food. It is also a smart way to cook during the summer because it helps keep your house cool. However, there are more injuries from grills during summer than any other time of the year. It is important to practice grilling safety when cooking outdoors. Here are 4 ways to make your cookout safer for everyone.

Wear the Right Clothes for Grilling Safety

If you are tending the grill, think about what you are wearing. Long, loose sleeves will dangle down into the grill and can catch on fire. The same thing can happen with untied apron strings. It’s best to wear close-fitting clothing with short sleeves when grilling out. If you have long hair, put it up in a bun.

Place the Grill in a Safe Location

The location of the grill matters for safety. Using the grill in an enclosed area can cause deadly carbon monoxide buildup. The grill should be placed on a flat surface with nothing overhead. It should be at least 10 feet away from any structures, trees, or awnings.

Clean the Grill and Check for Defects

A dirty grill isn’t safe to use because it can cause flareups and is unsanitary. Clean your grill after each use once it has cooled off. This way, the next time you want to grill out, it will be ready.

Inspect your grill for defects before using it. Check a charcoal grill for holes that embers could fall through. Look for leaks in the gas line of a propane grill by spreading soapy water on it and turning on the gas. If the soap bubbles, you can tell that gas is leaking out and should not use the grill until it is repaired or replaced.

Grilling Safety Around Kids and Pets

Use extra caution when grilling around kids and pets. They can knock over the grill when running around if no one is paying attention. Also, young kids don’t understand how hot a grill can be. It is best to have an adult supervising and keeping kids and pets away from the grilling area.

Rambo Inspection Services offers home inspection services to the greater Chicagoland area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.