Grilling Ideas: 5 Things to Know Before Your Summer Cookout

So, you think you can grill?

Summer has arrived, and soon your schedule will be jam-packed with barbecues galore. You might even host a few yourself, which is why a quick refresher on grill safety is in order. If you plan on using a gas grill this summer, there are a few home safety tips SCANA Energy wants you to keep in mind.

Before you send out invitations for your next BBQ, check out this video to see if you can pass our grill safety test.

Did you catch all that? A quick recap is below:

1. Grill placement is key! Always set your grill up outside and well away from homes and deck rails. Find an open area that’s not underneath anything that could easily catch fire, including low-hanging tree branches.
2. When cooking meat, looks can sometimes be deceiving. To avoid overcooking or undercooking your food, invest in an internal meat thermometer for safe and delicious meals. For recommended cooking temperatures, check out the United States Department of Agriculture’s Safe Minimum Internal Temperature Chart.
3. When the grill is no longer in use, safely turn it off by shutting the gas tank off first. This will stop excess gas from leaking. Also, it’s a good idea before your first grill-out of the season to test the gas valve for pressure flow and make any necessary repairs or adjustments to avoid a possible gas leak.
4. Whether you’re an expert or a grill master in the making, you should always keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency, especially if you’re cooking with gas. If you don’t currently own one, make a trip to your local hardware store and check it off your home safety list. It’s worth it.
5. Never leave the grill unattended when in use. If you must step away from your grill duties, get someone to keep an eye on it until you return. A watchful eye for children and pets is equally important for everyone’s safety.

Congratulations, you’re well on your way to becoming an ultimate grill master. Now, let the summer begin!

Our customer service team can help you determine the right rate plan for your needs, assist with service appointments and more. If you’d like to speak with someone, you can call us at 1.877.467.2262 or fill out our online form.