Keep safety in mind when grilling up your next barbecued meal! There's nothing like outdoor grilling. It's one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn, is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries. Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.

Safety tips

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least one metre away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended if using it.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

Propane BBQs

• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose.
  • A propane leak will release bubbles.
  • If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or by soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call 9-1-1.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call 9-1-1. Do not move the grill.
• If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least five minutes before re-lighting it.

Charcoal BBQs

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready for use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Information from the Alberta Municipal Affairs and NFPA (390.8 KB) .