Preparing for Summer Cook Outs, Grilling, Barbecues… Whatever You Call Them Make Them Safe and Fun

Posted by Carolyn on Jun 3rd, 2010 in Before the Disaster, Survival Tips, Tip of the Week | Comments Off

I keep telling you summer is on the way and it’s time to start moving cooking outdoors to help keep your home cooler. Oh course, grilling is fun and yummy as well.

There are some things you should know.

You should:

Read and follow all the instructions that come with your grill. Be sure to keep the instructions for future reference.

Keep the lid of the grill open until you are sure the flame has bin lit and will remain burning and not get blown out by the wind or just shut off because it did not get properly started.

Turn off the propane after every use.

Store propane tanks out side of your home in a vertical position.

If you smell gas after the initial lighting, close the lids, turn off the grill at the valve, and if you still smell gas move away from the grill and call 911. Do not restart the grill without having a qualified repairman take a look.

Place your grill at least eight feet from your home. a grill can flare up and cause damage, or worse to your home.

Place grill away from flammable materials such as outdoor curtains, towels and potholders.

Use soapy water to check for gas leaks in a propane tank.

Have a water source nearby for flare-ups and minor fires.

Do Not:

Smoke while handling a propane tank or lighting a grill.

Never use a match or lighter to check for leaks.

Pour lighter fluid on a grill or on charcoal that is already lit.

Use of store or transport tanks in high temperature areas.

Right now I am in Houston and we are grilling holding an umbrella in one hand and the spatula in the other! It’s worth it!