Barbecue Safety for Property Managers

Barbecue Safety

With barbecue season already here, homeowners should heed the following safety precautions in order to keep their families and property safe.

  1. Always make sure that the grill is used in a safe place.
  2. If you use a lighter, make sure you don’t leave it lying around where children can reach it.
  3. Never leave the grill unattended, as this is generally when accidents happen.
  4. Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby.
  5. Ensure that the grill is completely cooled before moving it or placing it back in storage.
  6. Ensure that the grill is only used on a level surface that cannot burn.
  7. Clean out the grease and other debris in the grill periodically.
  8. Don’t wear loose clothing that might catch fire while you’re cooking.
  9. Use long-handled barbecue tools and flame-resistant oven mitts.
  10. Keep alcoholic beverages away from the grill; they are flammable!

Propane Grills

Propane Grills

  1. Store propane tanks outdoors and never near the grill or any other heat source.
  2. Never store of transport them in your car’s trunk.
  3. Turn the gas all the way off after you have finished, and when you are changing the tank.
  4. Check for damage to a tank before refilling it.
  5. No more than 20-pound propane tanks are allowed on the property of a one- or two-family home.
  6. To inspect for a leak, spray a soapy solution over the connections and watch for bubbles. Replace the leaking parts before using the grill.
  7. Make sure connections are secure before turning on the gas, especially if the grill hasn’t been used in months.
  8. Ignite a propane grill with the lid open, not closed.
  9. When finished, turn off the gas first, and then the controls.

Charcoal Grills

Charcoal Grills

  1. Never use a charcoal grill indoors.
  2. Fill the base of the grill with charcoal to a dept of no more than 2 inches.
  3. Use only barbecue starter fluid to start the grill, and don’t add the fluid to an open flame.
  4. Let the fluid soak into the coals for a minute before igniting them to allow explosive vapors to dissipate.
  5. Charcoal grills are permitted on terraces and balconies only if there is at least 10 feet of clearance from the building, and a water source immediately nearby, such as a hose (or 4 gallons of water).
  6. Keep the charcoal lighter fluid container at a safe distance away from the grill.
  7. When cleaning the grill, dispose of the ashes in a metal container with a tight lid, and add water. Do not remove the ashes until they have full cooled.

Electric Grills

Electric Grills

  1. Do not use lighter fluid or any other combustible materials.
  2. When using an extension cord, make sure it is rated for the amperage required by the grill.
  3. The cord should be unplugged when not in use, and out of a foot path to prevent tripping.
  4. As always, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.