5 Tips to Ensure Safety When Using a Flat Top Grill

Firing up that outdoor gas griddle may seem easy, but you need to stay safe; otherwise, it could be a disaster. What are the necessary precautions that you have to take? 

1. Use the Proper Tools

Make sure you’re using the right cooking utensils for the job. Some essential tools you need include slotted and solid spatulas, tongs, a spoon, and a meat fork. These tools will help you turn your food, lift it, and remove it without any hassle.

You should also wear a pair of gloves. Wear heat-resistant gloves to protect from the hot surface as well as any grease or oil that may pop off the grill while cooking. 

Additionally, wear a pair of gloves when cleaning the grill because it may still be scorching and the presence of scalding hot oil. 

2. Wear the Right Clothes

Be careful of what you're wearing while cooking. Make sure your clothes aren't too loose and won't hang over the cooking surface while you're using the griddle. As much as possible, keep your clothes tight-fitting while cooking on the griddle to avoid accidents. 

Moreover, wear shoes that won't slip, are flat, and cover your toes. Avoid shoes that expose your feet, like flip flops or shoes without a rubber bottom.

3. Be Safe from Fire

You should have at least three feet of space around the grill. Nothing that could catch fire should be within that radius of the griddle. Using a fireproof grill mat is also a smart safety measure.

Never leave the griddle unattended as well. It may still be very hot, and if you're not there to monitor the cooking, it could cause a fire. If you have small children or pets at home, ensure you're always in the vicinity of the grill.

4. Store Your Flat Top Grill Properly

You mustn't leave the griddle out for a long time when you're done using it. Make sure that you cover it properly after using it. You can cover it with a grill cover and try to put it in a place that's out of the reach of children or pets to avoid accidents.

Store it in a place that's well-lit and clear of fire hazards. Keep it away from anything that can catch fire and ensure that the area you're storing it in can handle the grill's heat. 

Be careful with the power cord and the propane tank before storing them. Make sure you turn off the propane tank and unplug the cord from the outlet before putting the grill away. 

5. Maintain It Properly

Proper maintenance will help you enjoy your griddle for a long time. Make sure you clean it properly after you're done using it. Use a scraper and a brush to remove the grease and grime that can cause rust if left unattended. If you haven't used the grill in a long time, you may need to apply some non-abrasive cleanser to the grills to loosen the dirt and grime.

You should also apply a thin coat of oil to the griddle to prevent rust after you're done cleaning it. After applying some oil, wipe the griddle with a clean towel to remove any excess oil. Keep the griddle in a dry place so that the surface won't rust easily.

Stay Safe

It's easy to find yourself in an accident while cooking on the griddle if you're not careful. Ensure that you put these necessary precautions in place to avoid accidents. With the proper precautions and maintenance, you can enjoy cooking at home, and you won't have any problems with your griddle.

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