Warm summer days, family barbeques, and neighborhood pool parties mean it’s time to fire up your grill. However, using a grill comes with some serious risks.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, grills cause over 10,000 home fires each year, in addition to over 19,000 emergency room visits. The next time you fire up your grill for your family barbeque, follow these grill safety tips to keep you and your home protected.

Grill Safety Guidelines

• Use propane and charcoal grills outside in a well-ventilated area, away from the home deck railings. Do not place them under eaves or overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.

• Be sure that all parts of the unit are firmly in place. The grill should be stable and not easily tipped over.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grill and trays below the grill.
• Never leave the grill unattended once lit, and be careful after the fire is out. The grill body can remain hot up to an hour after being used.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand and know how to cut fuel supplies, extinguish fires, and treat burns should things get out of control.
• Never attempt to move a hot grill. It’s easy to stumble and drop it, resulting in severe burns.
• Use barbecue utensils with long handles to avoid burns and splatters. Wear clothing that does not have hanging shirt tails, frills, or apron strings that can catch fire. Use flame-retardant mitts when adjusting hot vents or moving pans on the grill.
• Keep your fire under control to prevent flare-ups. To put out flare-ups, raise the grid that food is on and spread the coals out evenly or adjust the controls to lower the temperature.
• If using an electrically-operated accessory (rotisseries, etc.), be sure to ground connectors per local codes. Keep electrical cords away from walkways, or anywhere people can trip over them.

Rockingham Insurance is here to help you have a safe and happy summer. Our home insurance policy can help protect your home from grilling accidents, fire damage, and other liabilities. Contact a local Rockingham Insurance agent today to learn how your home can be protected.