Be Safe When Barbecuing

Summer fun often includes barbecuing and eating outdoors with family, friends and co-workers. The following precautions must be followed if barbecues are used at work and are recommended wherever barbecuing takes place. These apply to charcoal grills, LP-gas grills, natural gas grills, hibachis, smokers, or any appliance that uses an open flame to cook. These precautions apply when grills are in use and until they have cooled.

• Outdoor grills should not be within 10 feet (vertically and horizontally) of combustible materials (including combustible landscaping materials)
• Do not use the grill in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, or under a surface that can catch fire.
• Never use charcoal lighter fluid on a burning fire.
• Leave the grill hood open until ignition occurs when lighting gas grills.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or charged garden hose accessible.
• Always shut off the valve to propane tanks when not in use.
• Ensure gas tubes are unobstructed, and there are no gas leaks at connections.
• Ensure grills are completely cooled before placing them back in storage.
• Always store gas cylinders outdoors.
• Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning and use.