Avoid a backyard disaster: try these 5 tips for charcoal grilling success

  • Published
  • 71st Flying Training Wing
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Grilling is often the quintessential representation of Americana during the summer months. Unfortunately, using these hot, metal, flavor enhancers has led to many burns and a few fires.

In fact, over the last several years, injuries suffered by Airmen who were grilling have resulted in 67 lost work days and $86,000 in injury costs.

For this reason, members of the 71st Flying Training Wing Safety Office have a short list of tips to keep you safe for the remainder of the grilling season.

6 tips for keeping your grill safe
- Propane and charcoal barbecue grills should only be used outdoors.
- The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
- Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
- Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

5 tips for charcoal grilling
- 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 starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
- Keep charcoal fluid out of 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.

Tips are courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association Public Education Division. Visit www.nfpa.org/education for more information.