There’s nothing quite like outdoor grilling. But summer is the peak time for grill-related accidents and fires if not used correctly. Annually 8,900 home fires are started by grills. Stay safe this summer by following these grill safety tips.

8 Grilling Safety Tips

1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Whether it’s assembly, use, maintenance, cleaning, or storage your grill manufacturer instructions should be your go-to resource for safe grilling.
2. Position the grill in a safe location. Keep your grill outdoors and at least five feet from the house on a level surface that is clear of outdoor furniture, overhead trees, or other potential fire hazards.
3. Check for leaks. Use a soapy water solution to check connections for leaks. Expanding bubbles indicate a leak. Follow this procedure every time you replace a grill propane cylinder or refill one.
4. Follow proper lighting procedures. Follow the manufacturer’s lighting instructions. With all grill models, keep the lid open, and don’t lean over the grill when lighting it.
5. Be present. Designate someone who will stay with the grill while it’s on. That person should stay close and never leave the grill unattended.
6. Three feet away. Keep children and pets away from the grill area when the grill is in use and still hot.
7. Keep it clean. Keep your grill clean and remove all grease buildup each time before grilling. Meats all contain oils that collect over time on the grill’s grates. By cleaning the grates before each grill use, your food will cook more evenly and reduces the chances of grease-related fires.
8. Wear appropriate clothing. Wear clothing that won’t interfere with the cooking process when using a grill and ensure that any apron strings are tied back away from your front. Clothing pieces that have long sleeves or pieces that dangle can catch fire easily when too close to an open flame.

Remember to stop by your local AGRILAND FS the next time you need to refill your propane grill bottle!

*AGRILAND FS locations with propane bottle fill available on-site: Audubon, Avoca, Clarinda, Creston, Fairfield, Griswold, Harlan, Indianola, Logan, Moravia, Orient, Oskaloosa, Underwood, Washington, Winterset, Woodbine, and Wyman.