Grilling Safety Tips to Follow this Labor Day

In case you didn't get the memo, today is Labor Day. Held annually the first Monday in September, it's dedicated to the millions of hard-working men and women who keep this country running. Of course, one of the most popular pastimes for Labor Day is grilling. But if you plan on grilling, there are a few safety rules you should follow to reduce the risk of injury and illness.

Check Wire Grill Brush

When was the last time that you checked your wire grill brush? It's a good idea to always check wire grill brushes before using them, as they cause dozens of hospital emergency room visits each year. When the individual wires break off, they can become embedded in food. And once ingested, these wires can cause serious injury to the digestive system. Always check your wire grill brush before using it, inspecting the individual wires to ensure they are secured and not loose.

Don't Leave a Hot Grill Unattended

I know this probably sounds like common sense, but it's still worth mentioning that you should never leave a hot grill unattended. Doing so only increases the risk of a fire. If a stray ember escapes, it could ignite other nearby materials, placing your property (and wellness) in the line of danger. 

The 10-Feet Rule

Whether you use a gas or charcoal grill, allow for a minimum of 10 feet clearance from your home or any other structure (for obvious reasons). Furthermore, you should remove any overhanging branches or debris that could ignite from a stray ember. Taking these considerations into mind when choosing a location to grill will reduce the risk of a fire.

Check Meat Temperatures

Last but not least, check the temperature of your grilled meat to ensure it's fully cooked. For chicken, a safe cooking temperature is 165 degrees. For pork, it's slightly lower at 145 degrees. Consume undercooked meat is a serious hazard that places you at risk for food-borne illness like Salmonella.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

As the saying goes, hope for the best but prepare for the worst, is a good mantra to follow when grilling. If a fire breaks out, you should have a fire extinguisher readily accessible to neutralize it. Don't assume that water alone is enough to put out unwanted fires. Depending on what's ignited, and the size of the fire, water may not suffice. So, keep a fire extingusiher nearby when grilling this Labor Day.