Grilling Safety Tips: Memorial Day 2020

ACROSS GEORGIA — As people follow safety guidelines to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, it’s important to remember another category of safety tips pertaining to the grill this Memorial Day weekend.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately 9,600 home fires start with grill. July is the month with the most, followed by May, June and then August. More than 16,000 people are admitted to the ER annually from grill-related injuries. Most are for thermal burns, which represent 8,200 of those visits, according to the NFPA.

They suggest a few simple safety tips to prevent hazards:

• Avoid the use of propane and charcoal barbecue grills indoors
• Always clean the grill before using it and make sure to remove all grease or fat beforehand
• Keep children and pets at lease 3 feet from the grill area at all times
• Always check that the gas grill lid is open before lighting it