Use your grill safely with these tips from UL

Each year three billion meals are prepared on grills and given the weak economy, many families are dining in more often. And while a backyard barbeque may be cost efficient, it can also be the cause of unintentional injury if grills aren't used properly. Following UL's simple precautions around the barbecue grill will not only protect the hamburgers and hot dogs, but the chef and their family, too.

Prepare for safety first

Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house or any building.
Never use a grill in a garage, breezeway, carport, porch, under an awning or any other surface that can catch fire.
Be cautious of overhead obstructions including tree branches while grilling.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy when grilling and know how to properly use it.
Never use gasoline or kerosene to light a charcoal fire.

When cooking has begun

Never leave the grill unattended, especially when young children or pets are nearby.
Never attempt to restart a flame by adding additional lighting fluid to an already-lit grill, as this can cause a flare-up.
Keep kids, pets and bare hands away from the grill.
Use insulated, flame retardant mitts, barbeque tongs and utensil when grilling.

Charcoal grill safety tips

Never use gasoline or kerosene to light a charcoal fire. Both can cause an explosion.
Never attempt to restart the flame by adding additional lighting fluid to an already lit grill.
Charcoal grills should never be used indoors, even if ventilation is provided.
Coals get HOT-up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit! Wait until coals have completely cooled before disposing them. When disposing, be sure to keep charcoal away from kids and pets.

Gas grill safety tips

Check the tubes leading into the burner for any blockage from insects, spiders or grease. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear blockage and push it through the main part of the burner.
Always keep propane tanks upright. Never store a spare tank under or near the grill or indoors.
Never keep a filled propane tank in a hot car or car trunk. Heat will cause the gas pressure to increase which may open the relief valve and allow gas to escape.