Taking the Right Steps to Ensure a Safe (and Tasty) Grilling Season in 2024
Summer’s around the corner and, for most of us, our mouths start to water, thinking of burgers, dogs, steaks, chicken and the countless other delicacies that come off the grill. Whether it’s charcoal or gas, there’s nothing quite like food cooked outdoors with a fire-roasted flavor. Let’s make it a safe grilling season in 2024. Here are some simple steps to enjoy the summer barbeque season.
- Step #1—Clean your grill thoroughly before your first cook of the season—There may be an accumulation of grease and other substances that have been collecting dust on your grill over the winter, even if you had the grill stored inside with a cover on it. Take the time to scrub all the surfaces of the grill, particularly the grates, using a wire brush, if necessary. Give the grill a good rinse and let it dry completely before you fire it up.
- Step # 2—Check the integrity of your grill—A number of factors can cause your grill to break down—heat, water and rust are the common culprits. Look for weak spots, loose parts or cracks, particularly along seams. If you’re using gas, check all the connection to ensure that they are tight and have no leaks.
- Step # 3—Season the grates—Whether they are cast-iron or steel, food can easily stick to them. One of the best ways to avoid this is to spray or wipe on a solid coat of food-safe oil (such as vegetable oil) and fire up the grill. When the oil starts to smoke, you can wipe off any excess oil.
- Step #4—Check propane tanks for signs of corrosion or other damage. Ensure that the valves work correctly.
Tips for Safe Grilling
Grill safety is about more than good preparation, though. Once you’ve fired up the grill, the following precautions can minimize the risk of injury:
- Keep a fire extinguisher close by—Often, with a flame-out, the best strategy is to put the lid on and deprive the fire of oxygen. In some instances, though, you may need the assistance of a fire extinguisher.
- Keep the area around the grill organized and free of clutter—The grill will be hot. You don’t want to stumble and fall on searing metal.
- Keep pets and children at least 15 feet away from the grill—They may not be aware of the dangers posed by the cooker.
