How to stay safe while grilling
An average of 10,600 grill fires take place on residential properties each year, and we at Plymouth Rock want to help keep you and your guests safe this summer. No matter how experienced you are, it’s important to remember that cooking over an open flame could pose a safety hazard. Besides, would you want your barbeque to be remembered as the one that went up in flames?
Before you cook
- Any grill – propane or charcoal – should only be used outside.
- If last year’s drippings tray is caked with grease or fat buildup, consider replacing it. Keep the tray clean throughout the season by removing any grease or fat after each use.
- If you’re using a propane grill, carefully check the hoses to and from the gas tank and look for any cracks or holes. Tighten the hose if it’s loose.
- If you’re using charcoal and lighter fluid, only use lighter fluid designed for grilling. Do not use gasoline or other flammable liquids.
While you cook
- Once your grill is lit, let it heat up a bit before putting any food on. If there’s lingering residue from last time, the heat will burn it off.
- If you smell gas, turn off the grill immediately.
- Use long-handled utensils to avoid burning yourself.
- Keep children away from the grill while it’s on.
- You should be able to put the flames out at a moment’s notice, so it’s a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- This goes without saying, but never leave your grill unattended.
After you cook
- Give the grill ample time to cool off before letting anyone near it. Even once the grill is turned off, it can still be quite hot.
- When the grill has safely cooled, scrub the grates with a pumice stone or coil-shaped bristle-free brush to remove any cooking residue.
- If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the ashes to cool for at least 48 hours before disposing. When disposing, wrap the ashes in tin foil and place in a non-combustible container
Grill-master-approved recipes
We’ve gathered everything from tried-and-true classics to foods you wouldn’t expect to fire up… including an addictively refreshing beverage. In our opinion, almost everything tastes better cooked over an open flame. So invite a few of your closest friends and relatives, make a jammin’ summer playlist and get ready to grill!
Click here for seven recipes you’ll want to prepare to wow your guests this weekend, including:
- Grilled Lemonade
- Grilled Sambal Shrimp with Peach Salsa
- Grilled Watermelon and Avocado Salad
- Grilled Mexican Street Corn
- Balsamic Garlic Grilled Mushroom Skewers
- The Best Marinated Grilled Chicken
- Grilled Cantaloupe Pieces
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