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Spigola’s Grilling Safety Tips
Chef John Kuropatwa
Grilling is a Great Summer Pastime,...
Safety is Key
* Watch the grill placement. Where the grill is placed is very important to having a safe grilling experience. It should be away from anything flammable and a minimum of 10 feet away from any structures, such as houses, porches, etc. Also, always be sure that the area is well-ventilated.
* Keep safety tools around. While grilling it is always a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher within reach, just in case things get out of hand. It is also helpful to have a spray bottle of water nearby that you can use to help keep the flames under control.
* Know your grill. It is always a good idea to read the owner’s manual for any grill. The more you know about how it works, the safer your grilling experience will be. Along these lines, only use grills designed for specific areas. For example, never take an outdoor grill indoors to use.
* Ensure grill stability. We’ve all seen wobbly grills, which can be a real safety hazard. Make sure that your grill is stable and won’t easily be tipped if it is bumped or the wind picks up.
* Protect your body. To minimize risks to your hands and arms, always use long-handled utensils when grilling. This will help avoid any burns from splatters.
* Keep the area clear. Barbecues are often a time when kids are running around and people are mingling. It is important to keep the grilling area free of traffic in order to avoid accidents.
* Let it cool. Before you move the grill make sure it has completely cooled. Moving hot grills could be dangerous, especially if you hit a bump and hot sparks fall out.
* Grill inspection. If you haven’t used the grill in a while, especially with a gas grill, inspect the tubes and hoses for any leaks, cracks or blockages caused by debris. If repairs are necessary, you should take it to an LP gas dealer to have it repaired, rather than trying to do it yourself.
* Stick around. Always stay around the grilling area when you are barbecuing. It is a safety hazard to leave a grill unattended.
* Follow food safety guidelines. When it comes to grilling, it is important to cook the food thoroughly and then keep it hot afterward, until eaten. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, here are safe minimum internal temperatures:
Whole poultry: 165 °F
Poultry breasts: 165 °F
Ground poultry: 165 °F
Hamburgers, beef: 160 °F
Beef, veal, and lamb (steaks, roasts and chops):
Medium rare 145 °F
Medium 160 °F
All cuts of pork: 160 °
After cooking meat and poultry on the grill, keep it hot until served — at 140 °F or warmer.
Grilling Safety Tips
