Outdoor Grilling Safety

Some useful tips for tailgating & camping…

Fall is a great time to enjoy football tailgate parties and weekend camping trips. The Pennsylvania Propane Gas Association would like to offer up some useful reminders to help you keep family and friends safe during these great experiences.

Outdoor Grilling SafetyBe the MVP of your Tailgate Party!

Cool as Ice

Nothing spoils your tailgate fun more than spoiled food, so before you leave the house, be sure to pack all perishable items in an insulated cooler. Make sure there’s enough ice inside to keep your food at a safe temperature. Also, tightly seal all meat to prevent the juices from cross-contaminating your other food.

Avoid Illegal (Meat) Procedure

Although meat will continue to cook for a short while after it’s removed from the flame, you should follow well established guidelines to be sure it’s fit for consumption. Ground meats should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F, steaks at least 145°F, pork chops at least 160°F, and chicken should reach at least 180°F. Don’t forget to arm yourself with an instant-read food thermometer.

Don’t Forget to Huddle Up

Getting in or out of a sporting event can be chaotic. If you’re traveling with others, consider designating a meeting spot. This way if you’re separated, you have a plan in place for dealing with it. Trying to text or make a phone call in a mob of people isn’t the safest or reliable thing to do.

Protect your Star Player

Your portable grill is the life of the tailgate party. Make sure you are guarding your MVP at all times from footballs, soccer balls, frisbees and other flying objects. Make sure your grill is at least six feet from any vehicle or structure and on solid, flat ground.

Propane & Your RV

Whether you’re a long-time owner or first-time traveler, it’s important to know about your RV’s propane system.

Propane is a great resource to cook food, cool beverages, or provide warmth/power at rest stops and campgrounds. Keep in mind some key safety considerations:

  • Open a window and turn on your exhaust fan when using your stove for cooking.
  • Do not use stove for comfort heat, or any appliances for means other than their intended use.
  • Portable fuel-burning equipment including wood, charcoal, and propane grills should not be used inside the RV or near the entryway. This can cause fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Keep your vehicle a safe distance away from any heat source, such as grills or fire pits. Keep propane tanks and cylinders at least 10 feet away from heat sources.

Learn more about RV Safety by taking a moment to review this online brochure from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)

Attachments

Outdoor Grilling Safety

RV Safety Brochure