Hot Weather Safety Tips, Including Grilling Precautions

Hot Weather Safety Tips, Including Grilling Precautions

Stay Safe and Avoid Burns During Summer Fun

Summer is a time for fun and outdoor activities. But it’s important to exercise caution, especially when it comes to preventing burns from barbecues and other heat sources. Dr. Samuel Mandell, an associate professor of surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, specializes in burn care and offers valuable tips to steer clear of heat-related pitfalls.

The Surprising Dangers of Hot Surfaces

Did you know that surfaces like concrete, metal, and even plastic can get scorching hot under the summer sun? These materials can reach temperatures high enough to cause burns, and children are especially vulnerable. According to UT Southwestern, contact burns from hot surfaces lead to approximately 70,000 emergency room visits every year in the United States. Concrete, for instance, can reach a blistering 125 degrees Fahrenheit, even when the air temperature is a relatively cooler 77 degrees.

Barbecue Safety Tips

Grilling is a popular summer activity, but it’s important to prioritize safety to avoid burn injuries. Barbecue grill or stove accidents account for a significant number of burn cases each year. Around 10,700 people sought treatment in U.S. hospital emergency rooms annually between 2018 and 2022 due to grill mishaps, states the Consumer Product Safety Commission National Electronic Injury Surveillance System.

Dr. Mandell emphasizes the potential dangers associated with grills, both gas and charcoal. He advises never leaving a lit grill unattended and ensuring a 3-foot or greater area around the grill is designated for children and pets, helping prevent burns and accidental grill tipping. In addition, it is crucial not to lean directly over the grill and use caution with dangling clothing, such as scarves, shirttails, and apron strings.

To ensure safe grilling, consider using flame-retardant oven mitts and long utensils to avoid burns. Never use gasoline to start a fire in the grill, and avoid pouring water directly on hot coals, as the resulting steam can scald your skin unexpectedly. Keep a lid or an appropriate fire extinguisher nearby to smother grease fires, and make sure charcoal fluid is out of the reach of children and pets, as well as away from any heat source.

• COVID virus evolves faster in deer than in humans
• New guidelines recommend avoiding opioids for short-term dental pai...
• Are cannabis medicines safe for pediatric cancer patients?

Once you’re done grilling, it’s important to let the coals cool before disposing of them. Never attempt to move a hot grill. It’s also crucial to be aware of the dangers associated with charcoal fumes. Burning charcoal produces carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be harmful when inhaled. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, never burn charcoal indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages, tents, RVs, or campers.

Other Hot Surface Safety Tips

Aside from grills, there are other potential burn hazards outdoors. Dr. Mandell suggests always wearing shoes on hot concrete or asphalt, especially for those with neuropathy. Concrete, toys, playground equipment, and even car seats can become scorching due to the sun’s intense heat. Keep a watchful eye on children and pets around these sun-drenched surfaces.

If someone falls or collapses on hot pavement, check for burns on their skin. Burns can sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for other injuries, so it’s essential to thoroughly examine the affected area. Immediate medical attention should be sought if burns are present.

Conclusion

Summer fun shouldn’t be spoiled by preventable burn injuries. By following these safety precautions and tips provided by Dr. Mandell and the UT Southwestern Medical Center, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer outdoors. Remember to always prioritize safety when handling hot surfaces and open flames, such as grills. By taking proactive measures, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your summer memories from burns and accidents.

References:

[1] UT Southwestern Medical Center, news release, Aug. 23, 2023
[2] U.S. Fire Administration – Burn Prevention