This Fourth of July weekend, people across the country will fire up the grill for outdoor gatherings with family and friends.
But before you make spicy grilled shrimp, chicken kebabs, or smoke BBQ ribs, remember to stay safe.
Seventy percent of adults in the United States own a grill or smoker, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. While that means a lot of people can enjoy home cookouts this Fourth of July weekend, there’s also the potential for danger.
Each year, approximately 9,600 home fires originate with grills and July is the peak month for such fires, followed by May, June and August, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Grill-related injuries send more than 16,000 people to the ER each year. Thermal burns represent 8,200 of those visits, according to the NFPA.
Here’s a graphic from the NFPA:
Following simple safety practices can prevent hazards. Here’s what the NPFA suggests:
- Get to know the type of grill you’re using
- Never use propane and charcoal barbecue grills indoors
- Do not use your flat top grill indoors if powered by propane
- Clean the grill before use — remove built-up grease or fat
- Keep kids and pets 3 feet from the grill area
Here are more tips to stay safe this Fourth of July:
Happy Fourth of July!
