Don't Let Safety Burn Your Outdoor Kitchen Dreams: Essential Tips
Outdoor kitchens are the hottest trend in home entertaining. Imagine whipping up delicious meals under the stars, the laughter of loved ones blending with the sizzle of steaks. But before you get carried away with design ideas, prioritising safety is crucial. After all, an outdoor kitchen involves fire, electricity, and potential hazards.
Here's a guide to ensure your dream kitchen is a haven for fun, not a recipe for disaster:
Designing with safety first
Location Location Location: Just like real estate, placement is key. Position your kitchen away from flammable materials like fencing, sheds, or low-hanging branches. Check local building codes for minimum clearances. Be sure to read product user manuals to gauge the distance a BBQ needs to be to the wall / surroundings behind it!
Taming the Flames
Appliance Choice Matters: Opt for appliances specifically designed for outdoor use. They're built to handle the elements and often have proper ventilation to prevent heat and grease build-up
Ventilation is Key: Speaking of ventilation, ensure your grill has adequate ventilation to remove smoke, heat, and grease. This not only improves safety but also prevents lingering odours.
Fire Extinguisher at the Ready: Mount a readily accessible fire extinguisher near the cooking area. Choose the right type (multipurpose ABC extinguisher is a good option) and familiarise yourself with its use.
Electrifying Safety
Licensed Electrician Only: Don't attempt electrical work yourself! Hire a licensed electrician to install all wiring and outlets.
Weatherproof Everything: Use electrical components and appliances specifically designed for outdoor use. This ensures they can withstand rain, sun, and other weather elements.
Gasing Up Safely
Licensed Professionals Only: Similar to electrical work, leave gas line installation to the pros. Hire a licensed plumber or gas fitter for safe and proper installation.
Leak Detection Matters: Consider gas lines with built-in leak detection features for added peace of mind.
Shutoff Valve is a Must: Install a readily accessible shut-off valve for the gas line in case of emergencies.
Grilling with Safety in Mind
Adult Supervision is Crucial: This goes without saying, especially with children present, adult s
upervision around hot appliances and open flames is non-negotiable.
Appliance Upkeep Matters: Regularly clean and maintain appliances according to the manufacturer's instructions. This ensures proper functionality and reduces fire risk.
Be alert for signs of gas leaks, such as a hissing sound or gas odour. If you suspect a leak, shut off the gas immediately and evacuate the area. Don't attempt to relight the grill until the leak is fixed by a professional. Check our advice out if you believe you’ve got a gas leak!
Food Safety Matters
Practice proper food handling techniques to prevent foodborne illness. This includes proper hygiene, temperature control, and storage of food. Don't let cooked food sit out for extended periods. Cool it promptly to prevent bacterial growth. Cleaning your product thoroughly after use is very important and stops the build up of food residue for future use. Follow our cleaning guide for best kept BBQ's.
Additional Considerations
Countertop Materials: Choose heat-resistant and weatherproof countertop materials like granite, stainless steel, or concrete.
Storage: Opt for cabinets and drawers made from weatherproof materials to protect utensils and supplies from the elements.
By following these safety tips, you can transform your outdoor kitchen into a safe and enjoyable space for creating culinary memories with friends and family. Now, go forth and fire up the grill – responsibly, of course!
