Submitted by: Prime Lending
America has a love affair with the backyard barbecue. Whether the snow has barely melted or it’s blazing hot outside, people across the country will find almost any excuse to fire up their grill or smoker for an all-American meal with the flame-broiled or smoky flavor we all love.
According to a poll by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 70 percent of U.S. adults own a grill or smoker, and the majority of those (63 percent) use it year-round. But the five most popular days to barbecue are, in order: 4th of July; Memorial Day and Labor Day (tied); Father’s Day and Mother’s Day.
Whether you’re entertaining a houseful of guests, or grilling up a simple meal for you and the family, grill safety is a must for everyone from the first-time-cook to the grill master.
Grills — whether charcoal or gas — pose a risk for fire and injury. The National Fire Protection Association estimates about 9,600 home fires involving grills, barbecues and hibachis occur every year, with July being the peak month for fires caused by grills. Be sure your backyard barbecue is hazard-free with these grill safety tips.
Before Grilling
- Never light your grill or smoker inside the garage, workshop or other indoor space.
- Keep your grill in a well-ventilated area and at least 10 feet from your home, fences and trees or hanging branches or plants. If it’s a windy day, put even more space between your grill and anything that could catch on fire.
- Be sure your grill is situated on a flat, stable surface.
- If using a gas grill, check gas line and connections before lighting the grill.
- Check burners for rust.
- Inspect tubes that extend from the burner to the control valves regularly.
While Grilling
- Always use a light stick or mechanical lighter to light your grill.
- If using a charcoal grill, use enough charcoal to cover the base about two inches deep.
- Allow lighter fluid to soak into charcoal for a few minutes before lighting the coals.
- Stand back when lighting the grill.
- Don’t wear loose clothing while grilling.
- Never leave a lit grill unattended.
- Use long-handled, flame retardant tools and insulated mitts when grilling.
- Never use water to put out a grease fire. Instead, spread baking soda over the flames.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire.
- Keep children away from the grill and lighter and store lighter fluid and matches or lighters where they cannot be easily accessed by children.
After Grilling
- Allow your grill to cool completely before moving it.
- Store extra propane cylinders outdoors.
- Turn off all burners and propane cylinders when you’re done grilling.
- Allow coals to burn out completely or soak in water before emptying them into a non-combustible container.
- Wrap cool ashes in foil and place in an empty non-combustible container.
- Store unused charcoal in a metal container with a lid.
- Keep your grill clean and remove grease or fat buildup from the grates and the tray below the grill.
These simple tips will ensure you and your family enjoy a safe summer grill season. Now it’s time to fire up the grill! Here are a few tasty grill recipes to enjoy.
Grilled Cornbread with Jalapeno Honey Butter — A delicious side dish to pair with to any grilled meal. Get the recipe here.
Pork Tenderloin with Peach BBQ Sauce — This mouthwatering homemade BBQ glaze and dipping sauce can be prepared in just 15 minutes! Get the recipe here.
Grilled Romaine with Bacon and Blue Cheese — Take your salad to a new level with this delicious grilled romaine salad. Get the recipe here.
Grilled White House Pizza Grilled pizza? Why not! Here’s a unique pizza recipe that includes sweet potatoes. Get the recipe here.
Do you have a favorite barbecue recipe? Share it with us on our Facebook page!
Ready to add the perfect outdoor kitchen or living space to your backyard so you can grill anytime you want? Contact PrimeLending today to speak with a home loan expert who can help you secure the renovation home loan to create your backyard barbecue oasis.
To find out how PrimeLending can help make your dreams come true, see Becky Carver and her team at 2401 Kresky Avenue in Chehalis or call 360-262-4005.
