The arrival of Memorial Day means that summer cookout season is here, and consumers should keep important safety procedures in mind before firing up their grills.
With nearly seven out of every 10 adults in the U.S. owning a grill or smoker, home fires and related injuries rise in the summer. An average of 10,600 home fires are started by grills each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
NFPA urges cooks to avoid placing the grill close to anything that is flammable. Grills should be placed well away from homes and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
“Be cognizant of carbon monoxide with charcoal, pellet, wood and propane grills, and always be cautious of hot surfaces—especially with young children around, as the exteriors of the grill can become extremely hot,” said C.T. Thiemann, Louisa County Farm Bureau president and a caterer for Louisa FFA Alumni.
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