More Ready Today!

Grills are fired up all around the country this time of year.  It’s one of the hallmarks of summer in the United States.  Just like kids running through sprinklers.  Also, using an outdoor grill can be a great way to cook when you have an interruption in the supply of electricity and/or natural gas.  

Whatever your reason for firing up the grill, note theses top five grilling safety tips.

Fire –  Fire is the most destructive force in the universe.  Be prepared.

• Elect a “Fire Marshall”
• Know the fuel source
• Have  a fire extinguisher in the area
• Know the location of a first aid kit in case of burns
• As always, know the fire department phone number

Location – Keep the grill away from trees, your home, children, and pets.  Never grill in  unventilated areas or walkways or where kids may be playing.  Enforce a “kid-free zone.”

Food Safety – You are more likely to get food poisoning than you are to get the flu. The basic rules to avoid it are:

• Suspect everything
• Keep it covered
• Keep it cool
• Get it hot (cooked)
• Use your head 

Gas Safety – Before starting a gas grill, check for normal wear and tear in the gas supply hoses or tubing – brittleness, leaks, and sharp bends.  Check tubes for any blockage from spiders, other insects, or food grease.  The number one cause of gas grill fires is an obstruction in the path of the fuel. 

At the first sign of problems, TURN OFF and DISCONNECT EVERYTHING.

Gas grills produce a great deal of heat that can melt through hoses, knobs, and other parts.  Assume everything is third-degree-burn hot!

Charcoal Safety – Charcoal grills are the cause of far more fires than gas grills. 

Lighting the charcoal is where many folks get into trouble, specially by adding lighter fluid to hot coals.  Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited.  Lighter fluid turns into a heavy gas at a relatively low temperature.  The fire may return to the fluid container and EXPLODE.  Never ever use gasoline.

Keep these tips in mind to help ensure that your next grilling event is safe and enjoyable.  Grill on!

Your grill can be a very handy for cooking and boiling water when you don’t have gas or electricity.  The supplies and equipment needed are simple and readily available.  Charcoal is the least expensive fuel per btu that the average family can store. Plus it’s fun to practice year-round. 

Remember – ALWAYS use your grill outside and a safe distance from your home. 

Here’s one source of info on heat, light, and cooking during an emergency:  http://www.nationalterroralert.com/heatlightcooking/