grilling safety

Grilling Safety

Grilling can be a great thing for picnics and parties during the summer months. However, it can also bring danger to an event if the grill is not used properly or safely. You may want to be aware of the dangers and some tips on how you can stay safe this summer!

General Tips

  • Don’t ever grill inside. Unless working with an indoor grill, you need to grill outside at all times. You should be a safe distance from the house. Aside from obvious fire risks, smoke inhalation is the leading cause of fire-related death.
  • Watch out for all things flammable. You may have flammable chemicals on you and never even know it. You should always be a far distance away from a lit grill if you’ve just applied sunscreen. You may have even gotten some gas on your work clothes.
  • Never underestimate propane. When it comes to a propane grill, it isn’t easy for everyone to master. Gas can actually be quite dangerous. It is a good idea to use caution when igniting or re-igniting the grill, seeing as high levels released or leaked propane can flare up, which can cause severe burns.
  • Don’t swallow grill brush bristles. These brushes can deteriorate over time and the bristles can come off in food. This could cause them to become lodged into your esophagus. Grill brushes may be great for maintaining your grill, but you should always maintain your brush as well.

What Should You Always do Before You Use Your Grill?

Grill preparation is always important. What are some steps and precautions you should take before you use your grill?

  • Always check the major connection points between the propane tank hose and the regulator and cylinder. Also check where the hose connects to the burners and tighten if loose.
  • Check the propane tank hose for the potential gas leaks. To do that, you must apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle. Then, turn on the propane tan. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose, which will be big enough to see. Lastly, if there are no bubbles, you will know that your grill is safe to use.
  • If there happen to be bubbles, you should turn off the tank and check the connections. Then, have your grill serviced by a professional before you use it again.
  • If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately.

When the Grill is on, What Should You Always Do?

  • As you are using the grill, if you smell gas, you should turn off the tank and burners.
  • If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional.
  • If the smell continues, call the fire department after moving away.

Not every grilling accident will be prevented, unfortunately. If you or a loved one have been injured in a grilling accident, you may have a case. Consult an experienced injury attorney to see where you stand with a case. Call MDL today for a free consultation and case review.