Worst-Case Wednesday: How to Put Out a Grill Fire
Sometimes you want your burger well done. But too well done can become a problem when a fire erupts from the grill where you’re cooking your dinner. Barbecues are common in the summer, but accidents can happen. Here’s how you put out a grill fire, thanks to The Worst-Case Scenario Almanac: Great Outdoors.
1. If you can safely reach the knobs, turn off the burners on a gas or propane grill.
If a propane tank itself is involved in the fire, evacuate the vicinity and call emergency services immediately.
2. Smother the fire.
Never spray water onto a grease fire. It will intensify the flames and spread the burning grease to a wider area. Throw salt, baking soda, or sand onto the fire to smother the flames.
3. Close the lid.
Make sure all grill vents are closed to further starve the fire of oxygen.
4. If the fire is still burning after 30 seconds, douse the grill with a fire extinguisher.
Be Aware
Flare-ups are usually caused by excess fat and grease dripping from meat through the grates. To prevent a flare-up from getting out of control, quickly move food to a warming rack with a pair of long-handled tongs. Return each piece to the center of the grill one by one, let the excess fat burn off, and remove it to the warming rack again.
When every piece has been treated in this fashion, return all the food to the grill and continue cooking.
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