Summer Food and Cooking Safety

grilling safety

Fire!

Outdoor grilling is a popular way to have fun and cook at the same time. But, if you are not careful, barbecuing can be dangerous . The US fire departments responded to an estimated average of 10,600 home structure and outdoor fires involving grills per year during 2014–2018.

fire

Prevention

Don’t Get Burned

There’s nothing like outdoor grilling. It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can catch fire is a hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries.

fire

Grill it Safely

Unnecessary Risks

One in three Americans admit to grilling while intoxicated, making it four times more likely to end up in a grilling accident.

bbQ

Apartment Safety

Pitmaster

Who says you can’t enjoy some great grilling because you live in an apartment? Always check with your apartment regulations before you grill.

USDA

Food 101

Foodborne illness

Cook It Safe

Whether you’re barbecuing or grilling, cooking and eating outdoors in warm weather can be challenging when it comes to food safety. Know your risks and learn how to prevent foodborne illness by exploring the CDC webpage or view the resources below.

BBQ w/ Corn


Prevention

Keep It Cool

Keep food cold when you carry it to another location. Use an insulated cooler with enough ice or ice packs to keep the food at 40°F or below. Immediately before leaving home, pack food from the refrigerator into the cooler. Keep the cooler in the coolest part of the car.

fruit

Internal Temperature

Temp It

Cook food to a safe minimal internal temperature to destroy harmful bacteria. Meat and poultry cooked on a grill often browns very fast on the outside. Use a food thermometer to be sure the food has reached a safe minimum internal temperature. 

temp

Picnic Safety

The Outdoors

Picnic and barbecue season offers lots of opportunities for outdoor fun with family and friends. As the weather heats, familiarize yourself with food safety tips like how to prevent foodborne illness, so you and your family can safely enjoy eating outdoors.

picnic

Pest Control

Shoo Fly

We love an outdoor party in the summer time. But we don’t want to be bombarded by those pesky flies! If you choose your lights and smells strategically, you are already miles ahead when it comes to keeping flies at a distance.

flies

Safety Tips

Prevention

What A Bang

Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burns and eye injuries. You can help us prevent firework-related injuries and deaths by exploring the firework safety information below.

Firework

Keeping your Pet Comfortable

What About Fido

Many animals become frightened by the sudden bright flash of light and loud sounds. These noises can lead to anxiety, uncontrollable shaking, and loss of appetite. Make it less scary for them with the information below.

Sad Dog

Fun In the sun

Learn

Sunscreen and Sunglasses

Sun safety is always in season! Whether you are barbecuing, enjoying the outdoors, or celebrating the holidays, it is always important to protect your skin from sun damage.