With the cold of winter finally retreating, it’s time to
bring the activity outdoors, including cooking. May through August are the
prime grilling months and those are also the peak months for grilling fires. The
American Red Cross wants you to stay safe this summer.
While grills are a great way to cook a big family meal, they
can also cause injury or even death if not used properly. In 2014, 16,600
patients went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills, and
these weren’t just adults. In fact, in 2016 1,600 children under five were
treated in the ER, typically for contact burns rather than flame burns.*
Making grilling safety a priority for
the whole family this summer with these tips from the Red Cross:
- Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
- Never grill indoors – not
in the house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.
- Make sure everyone, including children and
pets, stays away from the grill.
- Keep the grill out in the open, away from the
house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
- Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Never add charcoal starter fluid after coals have been ignited.
Burns
can range from minor to life-threatening. To learn what to do if someone in
your family suffers a burn or another medical emergency, download the Red Cross
First Aid App. This free app puts expert advice for everyday emergencies in
your hand. Get the app and be prepared for what life brings. With videos,
interactive quizzes and simple step-by-step advice it’s never been easier to
know first aid. Visit redcross.org/apps for more information. All of the Red Cross apps are available for smart phones and tablets and can be downloaded from the Apple or Google Play for Android app stores.
*Source: NFPA, Fire Analysis & Research Division, www.nfpa.org
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