General do’s and don’ts for barbecue safety tips.
The summer season is almost here, and that means making the most of the fine weather. The longer nights, brighter days, and warmer weather brings everyone out into the sun, particularly when there’s a feast! Before you get your grill out for the season, be sure to review these barbecue safety tips!
General:
- Don’t ever cook if you’re affected by alcohol or prescription drugs.
- Never leave barbecues unattended.
- Set it up on level ground, away from bushes, fences, tents, and other structures. Do not set it up underneath hanging tree branches or right by the home itself.
- Leave plenty of room around your barbecue, so you don’t have to squeeze past it.
- Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of emergencies.
- Never take a barbecue of any kind into a tent or awning. The carbon monoxide it gives off could kill you.
- Be aware that cooking fatty foods can cause the barbecue to flare up.
- Keep pets and children away from the grill at all times.
- Dispose of the ashes once they have cooled completely!
For gas barbecues:
- Make sure the tap is turned off before changing the gas cylinder. Do so in the open air or a well-ventilated place.
- When you’ve finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinders before you turn off the barbecue controls. This will use up any gas in the pipeline.
- If you suspect a leak to the gas cylinder or pipe work, brush soapy water around all joints and watch for bubbles. If you find a leaking joint, tighten it gently.
- Store gas cylinders outside, away from frost and direct sunlight.
Part of what keeps your home safe through barbecue season is securing reliable home insurance. Talk to the professional team at Chambers & Company Insurance Brokers to determine the right homeowners insurance policy to suit your needs through summer and beyond!