State of Connecticut Advocates' Corner

Using Your Barbeque Safely

When the sun stays up longer…Barbeque
  • It is fun to eat outside.
  • You can cook outside too.
  • Many people cook outside using a barbeque or grill.
Types of Barbeques
  • Some people use gas barbeques.
  • Some use charcoal barbeques.
  • Here are safety tips about both:
  • Never leave a barbecue unattended!
  • Never move a lit barbecue.
  • Use long-handled forks, spatulas, and spoons.
Barbeque Safety Tips
  • Use a barbeque with a lid.
  • Do not cook on a balcony or deck.
  • Make sure the ground is flat.
  • Stay away from trees.
  • Cook at least ten feet away from your house or apartment building.
If there are flames on the grill:
  • Do not put water on the fire! Barbeque
  • For gas grills:
    • Turn off the burners
    • If it is safe, turn off the tank valve
  • For charcoal grills:
    • Close the grill lid
If the flames do not go out:
  • Report It! Call 9-1-1!
  • Call the Fire Department right away.
  • Fight It! – But only if the fire is small.
    • You may fight it after you report it.
    • Use a fire extinguisher.
  • Escape It!
    • If the fire gets big, or goes near the gas tank, get away from it. Wait far away from it for the Fire Department to come.