HUDSON VALLEY- The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing safety tips to follow when using gas or charcoal grills. This Memorial Day, May 29, will mark the beginning of summer for many New Yorkers, and with it, the start of the grilling season. Following proper safety procedures when grilling can help reduce injury and save lives.
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby and easily accessible in case of a fire.
- Always start a gas grill with the lid open. Keeping the lip open while starting the grill allows excess gas to escape. If the lid is closed, the gas can pool under the lid and, when opened, combust suddenly creating a fireball.
- Light charcoal in a charcoal chimney. A charcoal chimney is a safer way of starting a charcoal grill since it doesn’t involve the use of accelerants like lighter fluid.
- Only use grills outside in a well-ventilated area. Never use a grill indoors, in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, next to your home or under a surface that will burn.
- Never leave a grill unattended.
- Watch for grease fires. If a grease fire occurs, turn off the gas and use baking soda and/or a fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
“Memorial Day is just around the corner, marking the beginning of summer when New Yorkers all across the State begin to gather, grill and enjoy the warmer weather with their friends and families,” said Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez. “But cookout fun can quickly turn dangerous if you don’t follow the proper safety procedures when grilling. Simple steps such as a frequent cleaning of the grill and keeping a fire extinguisher nearby can help ensure your gatherings remain safe and memorable all summer long.”
For more consumer protection tips, follow the Division on social media at Twitter: @NYSConsumer and Facebook: www.facebook.com/
