12 Grilling Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

By:chef ssentongo

From : Get Easy Recipes and Cook Smart

Grilling is a great way to enjoy outdoor cooking, but safety should always come first. Here are 12 essential grilling safety tips everyone should know:

1. Grill Outside & Away from Structures

Always use your grill in a well-ventilated outdoor area, at least 10 feet away from your house, deck railings, overhangs, or trees. Never grill indoors or in an enclosed space (garage, tent, etc.).

2. Keep the Grill Stable

Place your grill on a flat, non-flammable surface to prevent tipping. If using a charcoal grill, ensure it’s on a sturdy stand.

3. Check for Gas Leaks (For Propane Grills)

Before lighting, check the gas hose for cracks or leaks by applying a soapy water solution to the connections—if bubbles form, there’s a leak.

4. Never Leave the Grill Unattended

A fire can double in size every minute—always stay nearby when grilling and keep kids and pets at a safe distance.

5. Use Long-Handled Tools

Prevent burns by using long-handled tongs, spatulas, and brushes to keep your hands and arms away from flames.

6. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Have a Class B (grease fires) or multipurpose extinguisher within reach. Baking soda or sand can also smother small grease fires—never use water on a grease fire!

7. Clean Your Grill Regularly

Grease and fat buildup can cause flare-ups. Scrub the grates and empty grease trays after each use.

8. Be Cautious with Lighter Fluid (Charcoal Grills)

Only use charcoal starter fluid—never gasoline or other accelerants. Never add lighter fluid to an already lit fire.

9. Let the Grill Cool Completely Before Moving or Covering

Wait until coals are completely cool (can take 24+ hours) before disposing of them in a metal container.

10. Dress for Safety

Avoid loose clothing, dangling sleeves, or flammable fabrics while grilling. Use heat-resistant gloves when needed.

11. Watch for Windy Conditions

Strong winds can blow flames toward flammable objects or spread embers from charcoal grills. Adjust placement if needed.

12. Know How to Handle a Grease Fire

If a flare-up happens:

• Close the lid to cut off oxygen.
• Turn off burners (gas grill).
• Use a fire extinguisher if needed—never spray water!

Bonus Tip: Store propane tanks upright and outdoors, away from heat sources.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy delicious grilled meals while minimizing risks. Happy (and safe) grilling!

15 Best Grilling Recipes for Summer (Steak, Chicken, Lamb & Fish)

Grilling season is here, and nothing beats the smoky, charred flavors of perfectly cooked meats and fish. Whether you’re a beginner or a grill master, these 15 must-try recipes will make your summer cookouts unforgettable. Each recipe includes a step-by-step guide for foolproof results.

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*  Steak Recipes

1. Perfect Grilled Ribeye Steak

Ingredients:

• 2 ribeye steaks (1.5” thick)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp butter (optional)

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat grill to high heat (450-500°F).
2. Pat steaks dry, rub with oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Grill 4-5 mins per side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness).
4. Add butter & garlic in the last minute for extra flavor.
5. Rest 5 mins before slicing.

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2. Garlic Butter Filet Mignon

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp rosemary

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat grill to high heat.
2. Season steaks with salt & pepper.
3. Grill 4-5 mins per side for medium-rare.
4. In a pan, melt butter with garlic & rosemary, then drizzle over steaks.

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🍗 Chicken Recipes

3. Juicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat (375°F).
2. Coat chicken with oil, paprika, salt & pepper.
3. Grill 6-7 mins per side, then brush with BBQ sauce.
4. Cook until internal temp reaches 165°F.

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4. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 lemons (juiced)
• 1 tbsp thyme

Step-by-Step:

1. Marinate chicken in oil, lemon juice, thyme, salt & pepper for 30 mins.
2. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 mins per side.
3. Serve with extra lemon slices.

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🐑 Lamb Recipes

5. Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce

Ingredients:

• 8 lamb chops
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ cup mint sauce

Step-by-Step:

1. Marinate chops in oil, garlic, salt & pepper for 1 hour.
2. Grill 3-4 mins per side for medium-rare.
3. Serve with mint sauce.

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6. Mediterranean Grilled Lamb Kebabs

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lamb (cubed)
• 1 red onion
• 1 bell pepper
• 2 tbsp Greek seasoning

Step-by-Step:

1. Skewer lamb & veggies, brush with oil & seasoning.
2. Grill 8-10 mins, turning occasionally.

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🐟 Fish Recipes

7. Grilled Salmon with Honey Glaze

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Step-by-Step:

1. Mix honey & soy sauce, brush on salmon.
2. Grill 4-5 mins per side on medium heat.

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8. Cedar Plank Grilled Trout

Ingredients:

• 2 whole trout
• 1 lemon (sliced)
• 2 tbsp butter

Step-by-Step:

1. Soak cedar plank 30 mins.
2. Stuff trout with lemon & butter.
3. Grill on plank 12-15 mins.

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🍖 Bonus Recipes

9. Spicy Grilled Shrimp Skewers

10. Smoky BBQ Pork Ribs

11. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms (Veggie Option)

12. Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter

13. Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple

14. Beer Can Chicken (Whole Bird)

15. Grilled Pizza (Yes, Really!)

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🔥 Pro Tips for Grilling Success:

✅ Preheat the grill for even cooking.
✅ Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
✅ Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
✅ Let meat rest before cutting to keep juices in.

Which recipe will you try first? Happy grilling! 🍗🔥