No
Dallas outdoor kitchen is complete without a grill. Whether you opt for a basic charcoal version, gas, or a high-end hybrid, there are a number of safety tips you need to know. The Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA), and the
National Fire Protection Association both have pertinent information on the use of grills for cooking.
Here are some sobering statistics from the NFPA:
- Fire departments respond annually to almost 8,000 fires involving grills
- Approximately ten people die in these accidents every year
- Total property damage to houses and other structures tops $80 million
- Gas grills are the usual culprits in outdoor kitchen fires (but charcoal grills cause fires too)
Location and Layout
Safety planning starts in the design phase of a Dallas outdoor kitchen. Your grill should be at least 10 feet away from your house, fences, shrubs, overhanging trees, wood railings, etc. The surface on which your grill rests should be fire resistant. This can be a
barbecue grill mat. However, with a built in grill you may want to simply floor the entire space with natural stone, brick, or ceramic tile.
To reduce the risk of contact burns, leave a wide path between the grill and the island in your kitchen. Your grill should be located away from high traffic walkways. Choose a well ventilated area; be aware of wind direction so you know where sparks may land.
General Guidelines
Here are basic safety recommendations from the HPBA:
-
1) Read the manufacturer’s instructions before you use your grill
-
-
2) Never use a grill indoors or in a partially enclosed structure. This creates a carbon monoxide poisoning hazard.
-
-
3) Monitor the grill at all times while it is in use
-
-
4) Prevent burns on your hands and forearms by using long-handled cooking utensils
-
-
5) Don’t wear loose clothing that may come into contact with the grill accidentally
-
-
6) Keep kids and pets far away until the grill cools down completely
-
-
7) Clean any grease or oil spatters off the grill after each use to prevent flammable buildup
-
-
8) For freestanding grills, check for stability and tighten any loose components before each use
-
-
9) Never move a grill while it is still hot
-
-
10) Keep a fire extinguisher on hand at all times
-
Charcoal Grill Safety
- Don’t use flammable liquids other than charcoal lighter fluid to start your fire
- Consider using a chimney starter that eliminates the need for lighter fluid
- Never squirt lighter fluid on a fire that is already started
- Allow the grill to cool completely before you dispose of the ashes
Gas Grill Safety
Statistically, a gas grill is more likely to burn down your Dallas outdoor kitchen than a charcoal one. That’s because when things go wrong they go
really wrong. Liquid propane is a highly combustible fuel and proper handling is critical. Visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission (
CPSC) for a full list of tips for gas grill safety. Here’s one important step to take before each use:
Inspect the connection between the fuel line and propane tank for leaks visually and by applying some soapy water to the hose and watching for bubbles. If you smell a gas leak or see bubbles in the soap test, turn the gas off and have the grill serviced by a licensed professional before you attempt to use it
Do you live in or around Dallas? Outdoor kitchen experts from our DFW office would be happy to consult with you on designing a safe open air cooking area.