Grilling This Weekend? Use These Safety Tips From NJ Firefighters

MENDHAM, NJ — Open those pools and fire up those grills, it's Memorial Day weekend and the unofficial start of the summer! While friends and families gather for barbecues this weekend, it's important to practice good grill safety practices.

Grill injuries tend to peak in July, with the majority of those injuries being burn-related. If placed too close to the home, decks or trees, they can also be a fire hazard, according to safety tips shared by the Mendham Fire Department.

Best practices vary based on what kind of grill you use, but generally speaking, the grill should be kept clean of food build-up and grease. It should never be left unattended, and children and pets should be kept away.

Use a charcoal grill? Here's what you need to know:

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

And here is the important information for a propane grill:

Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.