Position Your Grill Safely: Place your grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from buildings, trees, and overhanging structures.
Keep Children and Pets Away: Establish a safety zone around the grill and make sure children and pets stay at least three feet away while it's in use.
Check for Gas Leaks: If you're using a gas grill, regularly inspect the gas hose and connections for leaks. You can do this by applying a solution of soapy water to the connections and turning on the gas.
Use Grilling Tools Safely: When cooking on a grill, use long-handled grilling tools to avoid getting too close to the flames and heat. Avoid using utensils with plastic handles that can melt or catch fire.
Practice Safe Lighting: If you're using a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid designed for grilling and never add additional fluid once the coals are lit.
Monitor the Grill: Never leave a lit grill unattended, as flare-ups or accidents can occur quickly. Stay near the grill while cooking, and have a fire extinguisher, baking soda, or a bucket of sand nearby in case of emergencies.
Handle Food Safely: Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator, not on the countertop, and keep raw meats separate from cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.