Poolside Grilling Safety Tips

Few things are more enjoyable during the hot summer months than relaxing by your pool and enjoying grilled food with friends and family. Grilling poolside can be relaxing and enjoyable, but it’s vital to be safe about it.

Prepare Accordingly

Ensure your pool is ready for summer. Have your technician check your filtration, pumping, and water quality. Once your pool is ready, ensure your grill is operational and ready to use.

First, make sure your grill doesn’t pose a fire hazard. If you didn’t clean your grill and the collection trays during the colder months, it’s important to do so before lighting it for the first time this summer. Thoroughly clean your grill inside and out. Check the fuel lines and hoses on gas grills for any signs of damage or rot, and check that your charcoal grill is sturdy and ready for use.

Make a Cooking Zone

If you have a propane tank connected to a gas grill, use a gas gauge to see how full it is. Once your grill is clean and fueled, make sure it is situated a safe distance from your pool. If you have small children or animals, placing your grill too close to the pool can create a hazard. Someone could knock it into the pool, damaging both the pool and seriously injuring anyone nearby.

If you have pets, be sure they can’t get near the grill or climb on top of it. Teach small children to stay away from the grill, and never leave the grill unattended.

Clean and Protect

Finally, after any pool party or summer gathering, make sure your pool and your grill are clean and ready for next time. Check your pool’s filter regularly and promptly remove debris like fallen leaves, pine needles, and twigs. Clean your grill after each use. This helps prevent food residue from building up and creating both a fire risk and health hazard.

With a bit of preparation, careful supervision, and proper cleaning, you can keep your pool and grill ready for every day of the summer.