Summer is a great time for family cookouts, backyard games, and meals shared outdoors. Whether you're grilling burgers, hot dogs or vegetables, it's important to make safety part of your summer plans.
While grilling can be fun, it can also be dangerous if families are not careful. According to the National Fire Protection Association, grills are involved in thousands of home fires each year, and many people are treated for grill-related burns and injuries. Families can learn more by reviewing the National Fire Protection Association's grilling safety tips.
Children are especially at risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that hundreds of children are treated in emergency rooms every day for burn-related injuries. Many burns happen when children get too close to hot surfaces or cooking equipment. Parents can explore CDC burn prevention resources to learn ways to reduce these risks.
To help keep your family safe this summer, follow these simple grilling tips:
- Keep grills at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, and anything that can catch fire.
- Never leave a grill unattended while cooking.
- Use long-handled grilling tools to help prevent burns.
- Keep matches, lighters, and starter fluid out of reach of children.
- Clean your grill regularly to reduce the risk of flare-ups and fires.
Families should also remember that grills are for outdoor use only. Using a grill inside a home, garage, tent, or camper can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning. Learn how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Tennessee residents can request free smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors through the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's office, Get Alarmed, Tennessee! program.
A little planning can go a long way toward preventing injuries. By following a few simple safety tips, families can enjoy delicious meals and keep summer cookouts safe for everyone.
For more information about fire prevention and outdoor cooking safety, visit the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office fire safety resources.