BBQ SAFETY TIPS

We're iin peak grilling season but also in fire season in a drought year! We sought advice from our local CalFire agency and they said at this point it's still safe to have our popular BBQs at the cottages but we ask everyone to please use caution. Here are a few tips to stay fire safe with the grills on our dry hills

1. Grill outside and far away from any structures

Charcoal grills are designed for outdoor use only. Pay attention to overhanging tree branches when you set up your grill.

2. Make sure your grill is on a steady, flat surface.. At SheepDung, we have provided cement pavers. Please keep the grill on the pavers at all times.

3. Keep your grill clean.Remove grease or fat buildup from both the grill and the tray below the grill. Allow the coals to completely cool off before disposing of them in a metal container.

4. Take care around the grill. Never leave a lit grill unattended. Don’t allow kids or pets to play near the grill. Never try to move a lit or hot grill, and remember the grill will stay hot for at least an hour after use.

5. Be careful with charcoal starter fluid. If you use a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. If the fire starts to go out, don’t add any starter fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. Use the provided charcoal chimney starter, which uses newspaper to start the fire instead of starter fluid.

6. Wear the right clothing. Clothing can easily catch fire, so be sure your shirt tails, sleeves or apron strings don’t dangle over the grill.

7. Be ready to put out the fire. Have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire and a fire extinguisher nearby for other fires. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, keep a bucket of sand next to the grill. Never use water to put out grease fire.

8. NEVER use the grill for a "fire pit" or campfire.

9. Don't grill in windy conditions on our dry hills. If it's super windy, consider alternative means for cooking. One spark on the dry grass can have disastrous results.