It's almost summer and that means grill and barbecue season is upon us. Who doesn't love a classic grilled cheeseburger or hot dog? Don't worry if you don't have your own backyard. You can still grill to your heart's content as a renter.
Apartment dwellers can enjoy all the perks of grilling even if your space is smaller. We've got the perfect recipe for you on how to grill safely this summer. Follow along for apartment safety tips and general grilling recommendations.
Before getting your grill on, there are a few important things to consider when apartment grilling.
Before you invite people over for a barbecue at your apartment, it's important that you check the apartment guidelines and read through your lease to ensure you're allowed to grill at your apartment. Some landlords prohibit apartment grilling and you don't want to violate your lease.
If you can't practice apartment grilling, don't fret. You can still enjoy the perks of a barbecue by using the community grill, using a public grill at the local park, using an electric grill or attending a friend's barbecue instead.
If your apartment complex allows grilling, then the next thing you need to check is the rules and regulations around apartment grilling. Different cities and states have different restrictions on what you can and can't do.
The International Fire Code, “prohibits the use of charcoal and gas grills and other open burning devices on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. There are exceptions for certain homes and where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system."
Make sure to check your city or state's rules when it comes to apartment grilling. Your landlord will likely be able to tell you what's allowed and acceptable for your rental unit.
If you're allowed to grill on your own patio or balcony, then you next need to determine if you have the space for a grill on your balcony or patio. Grills come in all shapes and sizes so you'll want to measure the patio and ensure you'll have enough space for the grill, the food and prep materials and a patio table itself. Take those measurements with you when you go to purchase a grill.
There are two types of grills — gas grills and charcoal grills. Each will make your food smoky and delicious but you'll want to understand the pros and cons of each before making a purchase.
Gas grills run on propane. You have more control over the temperature and cooking itself is usually easier. If your propane tank is properly hooked up, all you need to do is turn on the grill, let it heat up and grill away!
Charcoal grills run on (you guessed it!), charcoal! Charcoal grills allow you to heat up charcoals and then cook your food using the heat from the charcoal. Generally, charcoal grills reach a higher temperature when cooking. You'll generally get a smoky flavor with charcoals, too. Charcoal grills are usually less expensive than gas grills.
Make sure to ask your landlord if they allow both gas and charcoal grills. Some communities allow both, while others will prohibit the use of one or the other.
OK, you've done your homework and you're allowed to grill at your apartment. Regardless of your grill type, there are certain apartment grill safety tips you must follow because cooking fires are some of the most common types of house fires.
We've outlined the things you need to know to have a safe and delicious barbecue at your place. Whether you're grilling on your own balcony or using the communal grill, these are general safety tips to practice.
If you're grilling on a balcony or patio, you need to ensure you place the grill in a safe location. Keep the grill away from anything flammable and away from hanging plants, tree limbs or the building itself.
Likewise, always grill outside. Don't grill inside your apartment or inside a garage. Grilling is for outdoor spaces only.
If children will be around, make a perimeter around the grill to keep kids safe. Teach children to never touch the grill, even when you're finished cooking as the surface may still be hot. When grilling, make sure someone is watching the children so you aren't simultaneously grilling and watching for kids.
If there's a grill, there's a fire extinguisher. Accidents happen so it's important to keep one nearby so you can put out flames immediately. Fires can spread rapidly so it's a best practice to always have your fire extinguisher within arms reach. Also, make sure you know how to use it.
You should never leave your grill unattended. If you're the pitmaster, you need to stay by your station (a.k.a. the grill) until you finish cooking and turn off the grill. This ensures someone is near the grill to watch for fires or ward off any children who have strayed near it.
The grill itself isn't the only hazard when grilling. You need to follow food safety protocols to prevent food poisoning. Make sure you heat meat to the proper internal temperature before serving and avoid leaving heat outside for too long.
When you've grilled the last bratwurst, turn off the grill. You need to turn off gas grills so propane doesn't run endlessly and charcoal grills need time to cool down before you can dispose of the coals themselves. Before you sit down to enjoy your grub, make sure the grill is off.
Last but not least, make sure you thoroughly clean the grill after each use. You don't want food or grease build-up sitting on the grill. Not only is that gross and unsanitary, but it can lead to fires in the future.
Gas grills pose specific threats, too. When gas grilling, here are a few things to remember:
Charcoal grills also have their own safety protocols. Make sure to know these things when charcoal grilling:
Before you invite the neighbors, make sure you have these grilling essentials nearby.
Now that you know proper apartment grill safety tips, it's time to start grilling.
These essential safety tips and gear will ensure the best barbecue season to date.
Sage Singleton is a writer from Salt Lake City with a passion for literature and words. She enjoys writing articles that will inspire, educate and influence readers. She loves that words have the power to create change and make a positive impact in the world. Some of her work has been featured on LendingTree, Venture Beat, Architectural Digest, Porch.com and Homes.com. In her free time, Sage loves traveling, reading and learning French.