What Are Some Summertime Grilling Safety Tips For New London Homeowners?

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

There's nothing better than the smell of food on the grill when warm weather arrives in New London. We all look forward to cooking outdoors every year. Seven out of every ten adults in the U.S. have a grill or smoker, which translates into many great meals; it also means there's an increased risk of home fires. 

Here at SERVPRO of Huron & East Seneca Counties, we care about your safety and the safety of your loved ones, so today, we’re sharing some summertime grilling safety tips for you to keep in mind as you enjoy the beautiful outdoors! 

How Can I Keep My New London Property Safe From Fire When I Grill Outdoors?

According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 64% of all households own a gas grill, 44% own a charcoal grill, and 9% own an electric grill. No matter which type of grill you use, these safety tips will keep you and your home safe for grilling season:

• Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use only. Pay attention to overhanging tree branches when you set up your grill.
• Be sure to set up your grill on a flat surface so that the grill can’t tip over. Consider using a grill pad or splatter mat underneath your grill to protect your deck or patio. 
• Remove grease or fat buildup from the grill and the tray below the grill. If you are using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to cool off before disposing of them in a metal container. 
• Check the gas tank hose for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas before the first barbecue of the summer. If there is a propane leak, the solution will bubble. Other signs of a propane leak include the smell of gas near the barbecue or a flame that won’t light. 
• If you are using a gas grill and the flame goes out, turn the grill and the gas off, then wait at least five minutes to re-light it. 
• Never leave a lit grill unattended or allow children and pets to play near it. Never try to move a lit or hot grill, and remember that the grill will stay hot for at least an hour after use. 
• If you use a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. If the fire starts to go out, don’t add any starter fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.  
• Clothing can easily catch fire, so be sure your shirttails, sleeves, or apron strings are not near the grill. 
• If you don’t have a fire extinguisher handy, keep a bucket of sand next to the grill. Never use water to put out a grease fire; baking soda is best here.

How Can SERVPRO Help If A Fire Occurs At My New London Home?

SERVPRO of Huron & East Seneca Counties is here to guide you through this kind of event. You can count on us to always treat your family with the greatest empathy and respect, and we will treat your New London property with great care.

Please refer to our Fire Damage Tips - Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property while you wait on the SERVPRO of Huron & East Seneca Counties team. 

SERVPRO handles fire and water damage restoration, and we’re mold remediation experts, too. You can reach us online and by calling (419) 443 1790. 

This franchise is independently owned and operated.