Grilling safety tips

Memorial Day kicked off the unofficial start of summer and with it the start of barbecue season.
New Yorkers are heading out to their grills to cook up summer delicious summer fare. But along with grills being ignited must come grill safety. Every year barbecues cause more than 1,500 structural fires and 4,200 outdoor fires, according to the FDNY.
Here are some tips from the FDNY to help safely use and enjoy your outdoor grill:
Prior to first using your grill: The FDNY reports that many of the fires started when a grill was used for the first time after winter.
– Check the tubes that lead into the burner for any blockage from insects or food grease. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear any blockage and push it through to the main part of the burner.
– Visually inspect the propane hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks. A soap and water solution may be used to test for leaks.
– Move propane hoses as far as possible from hot surfaces and dripping grease.
– Visually inspect the propane tank. If it has dents, gouges, bulges, corrosion, leakage, or excessive rust, return the tank to the propane gas distributor.
– Follow the maintenance instructions provided in the grill owner’s manual.
– Barbecues are for outdoor use only, never use in an enclosed area.
– When the grill is not being used make sure the propane valve is off or closed.
– Never leave grill unattended
– Keep grill at least ten feet away from buildings and out from under overhanging branches.
In New York City it is illegal to use a charcoal or propane grill on the roof of any building, use a propane grill on a residential property with three or more family residences or use a propane grill on the terrace or balcony of an apartment building.
If grillers follow these tips they will be assured a safe and delicious barbecue season.