Americans love grilling. So much so that according to the Weber 16th Annual GrillWatch™ Survey, grilling is not just for dinner. Sixty-nine percent of respondents grill for lunch and 14 percent grill for breakfast. With that much grilling going on, it’s important to keep grills maintained and to take all safety precautions.

Establishing your personal grilling habits is the first step in grilling safety.  Someone who cooks out on the patio several times a week will need a more heavy-duty grill than someone who occasionally roasts hot dogs at the beach. Make sure the grill you select is designed to match your needs.

The GrillWatch Survey also revealed that the majority of grill owners cook on a gas or charcoal grill. Here are some safety tips for those grills:

Gas Grills – According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, grills that have been idle for long periods of time should be carefully inspected before each use.

•	Inspect tubes that connect the burner with the fuel source for blockage from such things as insects, food or grease.
•	Inspect all hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes or leaks.
•	Protect gas hoses from hot surfaces or dripping grease by moving them or covering them with a heat shield.
•	Replace any damaged connectors to prevent leaks.
•	Never light a grill indoors.
•	When in use, make sure the grill is at least 10 feet away from any building.
•	Do not attempt to repair the gas tank.  Consult the grill dealer or a qualified repairperson.
•	When storing your grill, keep containers upright and away from any flammable liquids such as gasoline.
•	Keep children away from the grill while it is in use and for several hours while it is still hot.

Charcoal Grills – Although the dangers of charcoal grills are less intense, the potential for danger remains.  Each year, scores of people are injured as a result of poor safety habits.

•	Never burn charcoal inside.  Improper ventilation can lead to toxic levels of carbon monoxide.
•	Do not store grills indoors with freshly used coals.  Charcoal emits carbon monoxide until completely extinguished.
•	Never pour lighter fluid on charcoal after it has been lit.
•	Do not use your grill in a garage, breezeway, carport or under any surface that can catch fire.
•	Avoid wearing loose clothing while grilling.
•	Keep children away from the grill while it is lit and for several hours while it is still hot.