Safety Tips for Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens are a great way to entertain guests and family alike. As outdoor kitchens become more affordable, they are becoming more popular with average homeowners. But there can be some hazards associated with outdoor kitchens. Being safe should be a concern of everyone who owns and operates one of these fun-filled areas. Here are some safety tips that will help you keep everyone safe and happy.

Fire: As you might imagine, fire is the biggest hazard that you face with an outdoor kitchen. Whether you are using a gas stove, fire pit or simple bar-b-que grill, the risk is fire is always present. Of the safety items that all kitchens should have on hand are fire extinguishers. These should be kept close but not where the fire is most likely to occur. Another fire safety item to keep close by is a bowl of salt which can be used for grease fires.

Electric Shock: The potential for electric shock increases if your outlets are not properly grounded. It also increases if your outdoor kitchen area is near a pool or other source of water. In the event someone is shocked, it is important that you not touch the person with your hands. Use a broom stick to move them away from the water or electric cord. This keeps you from being shocked as well. Homeowners should know CPR for any emergency but especially for electric shock accidents.

Cuts: Always keep your shard knives out of the reach of children. It is also a very good idea to keep them away from the edges of tables or countertops where they might fall if bumped.

Slips and Falls: Many outdoor kitchens have stone or tile flooring. These types of flooring can be dangerous and slippery when it gets wet. If your flooring is often wet you may want to consider applying anti-slip strips. These are very easy to install, peel and stick in many cases, and they really do work. If anti-slip strips are not an option, consider placing mats around the perimeter of the kitchen so that people can dry their shoes or feet before they come upon the actual flooring.

Things to Have On Hand: While accidents can be prevented in most cases, they do happen. Every outdoor kitchen should have a few items close at hand. These include:

Fire Extinguishers: Fire extinguishers are very affordable these days and they can be purchased either in retail outlets or through online vendors. If your outdoor kitchen uses electrical outlets and there is water often present, consider buying an additional device that is suitable for electrical fires.

First Aid Kit: A standard first aid kit should be a part of every outdoor kitchen. These kits should include an assortment of bandages to handle cuts and scrapes.

Remember, you can buy most of your outdoor kitchen safety items online. This can save time and money.