ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwired - Apr 1, 2015) - As the days grow longer and the weather warms, many activities are moving outdoors, including cooking. To keep those meals from going up in smoke, or worse, Enviro-Log®, Inc., a leader in eco-friendly products for home heating and outdoor activities, offers safety tips to help you avoid outdoor cooking accidents.
Grilling has become more popular than ever. According to the 2014 State of the Barbecue Industry report from the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association (HPBA), eighty percent of households own an outdoor barbecue, grill or smoker. With an increasing number of people using grills during the warmer months, there's a greater risk for accidents that can result in serious injury or property damage.
"Cooking outdoors has its risks, but they can be reduced by taking the right precautions and following safety procedures," said Ross McRoy, president of Enviro-Log. "We urge people not to wait until after an accident has already happened to think about grilling safety. Please consider the following safety tips to help you avoid outdoor cooking accidents."
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Safety first. Never leave your grill or fire unattended and be sure to keep children and pets away from the fire and cooking area. Have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency.
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Read the Manual. Not all grills are the same. Always read instruction manuals and consult the manufacturer about the proper use of your grill, firepit, or chiminea before use.
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Select the proper location. The National Fire Protection Administration (NFPA) said grills are the cause of 3,600 structure fires every year. Grills, fire pits, and chimineas should only be used outdoors and never in a trailer, tent, house, garage, covered porch or any enclosed area. They should be positioned at least 10 feet away from your house. In addition to creating a fire hazard, operating a grill, firepit or chiminea in an enclosed area can lead to the accumulation of carbon monoxide.
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Stay out of the wind. Never operate your grill, firepit or chiminea in high winds. High winds can significantly increase the risk of flames spreading to nearby structures including your home.
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Charcoal grills. Never add lighter fluid or any other flammable liquids to a charcoal grill that has been lit. Doing so can result in flare ups that can travel several feet. Consider alternative firestarter products that offer a preselected start that can easily be extinguished. Always let your charcoal cool completely before moving your grill or leaving it unattended. When you are finished grilling, douse the coals or soak them in water before disposing them in a metal container.