Tip of the Week: Barbecue Safety Tips

Stock Photo by Mihai Dumitru

Barbecue season is upon us. One can smell its aroma throughout the Warrendale neighborhood. With that in mind, I wanted to share some tips from the Detroit Fire Department about barbecue safety.

Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Also, make sure that the venturi tubes - where the air and gas mix - are not blocked.

A few other safety tips include:

• Do not overfill the propane tank;
• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue;
• Be careful when using lighter fluid; Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
• Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas - carbon monoxide could be produced;

Also, backyard cooks should be advised to dispose of hot coals properly. Douse them with plenty of water and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.

If children will be around the barbecue, there are special tips for keeping them safe. Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately. Supervise children around outdoor grills.

Finally, make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop and Roll in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 911 or your local emergency number if a burn warrants serious medical attention.