We’ve come to you with our BBQ safety tips because what’s the point in having a scrumptious burger in the garden and ending up with food poisoning or a child with an injury, right? 

It’s official – the people of Ireland have already started barbecuing. We’ll ignore the fact that the BBQ weather was immediately followed by a fine dose of rain. We’re focusing on the positives because that is our style. 
Apologies if this is a bit like raining on your parade but we’ve come to you with our BBQ safety tips because what’s the point in having a scrumptious burger in the garden and ending up with food poisoning or a child with an injury, right? 
  • Food Poisoning is real and it is NOT a fun time. Be extremely careful when it comes to cross-contamination. Do not handle raw and cooked meat with the same tools and ensure that food is completely cooked and piping hot before serving.
  • When setting up the BBQ choose an area of the garden that is away from shrubbery and garden furniture due to the risk of them catching flames.
  • Remember that coals will remain very hot long after the cooking has ceased. Ensure that all adults and children are aware of this and do not touch it.
  • Smoke inhalation is dangerous for little lungs. Encourage children to stay away from the BBQ and cooking area and purposely position it in an area that is away from the children’s toys and play areas.
  • Use long-handled tools to protect your hands while you cook around very hot flames and coals.
  • Keep your grill clean. Cleaning your grill properly will make your food taste better and will also reduce the risk of a flare-up.
  • Don’t forget about pets. You may be focusing on the safety of the kids and adults but a BBQ can pose great safety risks to animals too. Ensure that pets are kept at a safe distance away from the grill at all times. They may also prove to be a distraction when handling sharp or very hot utensils.
  • Have a fire extinguisher to hand and ensure that you know how to use it in the case of an emergency
Written by Tracey Quinn staff writer at Family Friendly HQ.

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