Outdoor Cooking and Safety Tips for Summer 

As the weather warms up and the days get longer, outdoor cooking becomes a favorite pastime for many. Whether you’re flipping burgers in the backyard or hosting a weekend barbecue, safety should always be part of the recipe.  

Here are 6 essential tips to help you cook up delicious meals while keeping your home and loved ones safe.  

1. Know Your Grill  

Before you fire up the grill, it’s important to understand the type of equipment you’re using. Each grill has its own set of safety considerations. Make sure you’re familiar with it beforehand! 

• Gas Grills: Check for gas leaks before each use. Apply a soap-and-water solution to the hose. If you see bubbles, you have a leak.  

• Charcoal Grills: Use only charcoal starter fluid designed for grilling. Never add fluid to an open flame once the fire is lit.  

• Electric Grills: Keep cords dry and away from water. Use only GFCI-protected outlets to reduce the risk of electric shock.  

2. Choose the Right Location  

Where you place your grill can make a big difference in preventing accidents. Always set up in a clear, open and well-ventilated area.  

• Place grills at least 10 feet away from buildings, fences and overhangs.  

• Never grill in enclosed areas like garages, balconies or under awnings.  

• Always keep your grill on a flat, stable surface to prevent tipping.  

3. Stay Attentive  

Grilling isn’t a “set it and forget it” activity. Your full attention is the best safety tool you have! Staying alert can help prevent accidents and ensure your food is cooked safely.  

• Never leave a hot or lit grill unattended.  

• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the cooking area. 

• Use long-handled tools to protect your hands and arms from heat and splatter. 

4. Keep it Clean  

A clean grill not only cooks better but also reduces the risk of flare-ups and fires. Be sure to always:  

• Scrape the grates and remove grease buildup after each use.  

• Empty and cool charcoal ashes before disposing of them in a metal container. 

• Clean drip trays regularly.  

5. Be Emergency-Ready  

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. A little preparation goes a long way.  

• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby or baking soda and/or a bucket of sand to smother small grease fires.  

• Never pour water on a grease fire, as it can cause the flames to spread.  

• Know how to quickly shut off the gas supply in case of emergency.  

6. Respect Your Community  

If you live in a rental home or shared space, make sure your grilling habits are courteous and compliant.  

• Follow any community guidelines about grill use and placement. 

• Use designated grilling areas if available. 

• Be mindful of smoke and smells that could affect neighbors.  

• Clean up your area and recycle foil or disposable trays when possible. 

Grilling is one of the joys of summer, made even better when done safely and responsibly.  By following these tips, you’ll help ensure that your cookouts are memorable for all the right reasons: great food, good company and peace of mind.