Fire up the BBQ grill, but don’t forget the food safety this holiday weekend

Summer has arrived and warmer temperatures are opening the door for more outdoor activities. While the Fourth of July marks an opportunity for big familyand-friend gatherings, and for some may be the first time the barbecue pit is coming out, it won’t be the last time this summer. However, with the celebration comes the need to err on the side of caution and keep safety top of mind.

“While barbecuing, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with burns and fires. There are some simple things you can do to prevent fires and burns …,” Dr. Brian Nelson, SMMC Emergency Room physician, said.

Anytime the grill is on and has an open flame, do not leave it unattended, especially with small children or animals around. Fires can increase in size quickly, and if bumped, could tip over or catch surroundings on fire.

“(For celebrations decorations are put up and) while decorations are festive they are also highly flammable. Keep all decorations a safe distance from your grill,” Dr. Nelson said.

Before firing up the grill, make sure it is clean and limit the amount of fatty

foods on the grill at one time. Grease is one of the most common causes of fire while barbecuing. Keeping a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby is advised to allow for any fires to be put out quickly.

“When it comes to gas grills, it’s important to be mindful any gas leaks. A spray bottle of soapy water is a quick way to check the gas connections on your grill to be sure there are no leaks,” Dr. Nelson said. “If you see bubbles that’s a sign you either have a loose connection or small holes that are allowing gas to escape.”

Fire danger is just one of the hazards associated with grilling. In addition smoke inhalation can be another hazard if the grill is not located in a well-ventilated area.

“With the rainy weather we have had lately, it may be tempting to bring the barbecue indoors. It is important that you only grill outdoors a safe distance away from the house,” he said. “Even small grills should not be used indoors. This is a potentially deadly mistake; in addition to the fire risk, carbon monoxide can build up putting you up and your loved ones in harm’s way.”

Grills should be located outdoors in a well-ventilated area and away from low hanging trees. To keep the smoke that is given off to a minimum, Dr. Nelson issues the reminder to clean the grill before putting food on and limiting the amount of fatty foods placed at one time.

Proper food preparation when it comes to outdoor events is another area that should be approached with caution. Sanitation is a key point of preparation, from washing your hands before handling the foods, especially raw meats to any surfaces the food

will be touching. Keeping cooked foods and uncooked food separated is important. While marinating meat make sure to keep refrigerated.

“Bacteria multiplies quickly, especially in the summer heat. A simple rule of thumb is to keep cold food cold and keep hot food hot,” Dr. Nelson said. “Put food away quickly; this one can be hard to remember when you are busy visiting with guests, but food should never be left out for more than one hour when the temperature is above 90°F according to the FDA.

Food poisoning can result if food was left out too long, especially in the sun, for more than an hour or so.

“If you have gotten distracted and left food out for more than an hour while celebrating this weekend and left food out for more than an hour, it’s best to remember: when in doubt, throw it out,” he said.

If you begin to feel sick after eating food that was under cooked or sat out too long, it’s advised to rest and drink plenty of clear fluids.

If you begin to get dehydrated, are at risk for complications, or if your symptoms persist, it is best to call your doctor.