Grilling Tips Can Help Ensure A Safe Memorial Day Weekend

HOUSTON — Memorial Day weekend is not only the unofficial start of summer, it’s also the start of prime grilling season, especially in areas of the south. While most people with experience in front of the barbecue pit may not realize the dangers, there is a real possibility they are doing something unsafe that could harm themselves, their loved ones, or their property.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends a few common sense tips for a safe grilling season.

• Keep the grill away from homes, decks, and low hanging branches.
• If you use a gas grill, open the lid before you turn on the gas and ignite the flame.
• If your grill does not start right away, turn off the gas at the source, and let dissipate for 5 minutes.
• Whether it’s a gas or a charcoal grill, don’t leave it unattended, especially with the lid open.
• If you use charcoal, use approved starters, such as lighter fluid, electric coal starters, and chimney starters only.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away.
• Keep the grill clean. Cleaning up after each use helps minimize flare ups and injuries.
• Charcoal grillers, let the coals burn out and cool before dumping them in a metal container.

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