Here are BBQ dos and don’ts that will ensure you have a safe and fun-filled family day:
Do:
1. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your food is thoroughly cooked. The last things you want is for someone to get sick.
2. Do wash your hands frequently while handling raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Stack your coals asymmetrically once hot so you can move food that is burning on the outside to a side with a lower temperature.
4. Make sure you use the right temperature to cook your meat. If you want, you can pre-cook it in the oven before putting it on the BBQ for a smoky taste.
5. Do think safety: keep your grill away from overhanging trees, fences, children, garages, anything highly flammable and cars. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher that you know how to use.
Don’t:
1. Don’t try to cook too many things at once. Your risk of food poisoning increases the more meat you have on the grill that requires different temperatures.
2. Don’t allow grease to build up on your BBQ as it is one of the major risk factors for a flare-up. It’s easier to wipe it clean when it is still warm.
3. Don’t turn on the gas while the lid is still closed. This will just create a fireball when you do light it.
4. Don’t leave it unattended and keep a spray bottle of water close by in case of small flare ups.
5. Don’t leave your food uncovered as it will attract flies; perishable foods left out of the fridge or cooler for more than an hour can become unsafe to eat.
