by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: May 30, 2009

Anyone who has ever lived in an urban area, whether it be a large city, or a suburb near a large city knows that congestion is a problem everywhere you go. Buildings and houses are built incredibly close together, and the availability of wide open spaces is slim to nil.

How then can one enjoy the taste and experience of barbecue grilling when they live in a city?

First of all, find out whether the city has any ordinances regarding grilling. Consult with the local fire department to see what tips, if any, they may have for you. An important fire safety consideration is how far one should be from a building, a fence or any other facility that might be a potential fire target. The minimum distance one should be from a building or house is ten feet.

What about grilling on a porch or a deck?

Grilling on a porch really isn't a great idea. The porch is an enclosed area that is far too close to living quarters for comfort. Moreover, in apartment or condominium type buildings, most apartments will have another apartment above them. Grilling in such an enclosed area puts everyone at risk.

A deck may be a bit safer if the grill can be placed far enough from the home to minimize potential danger. If the home is made of wood, then the further away one can be, the safer for everyone.

What about parks, forest preserves and camping grounds?

Many public city parks, county forest preserves and public camping grounds expect people to want to grill or cook over campfires. They have specially designated areas where one can do these things. they are generally areas that aren't enclosed spaces where there are trees everywhere you look. They are likely to be places that have water nearby in case it is needed.

What about hot and dry climates?

Many people may not realize that in some places where the weather is constantly very dry and very hot, there are burning bans in place. These bans may last for long stretches of months on end. There is a reason they've been put in place. The conditions are so dry that any open fire outside can ignite anything around it. When the area is like a tinder box, one may even have to refrain from mowing the lawn.

What about wind?

When there is high wind situation, that is often a time when red flag warnings are put into place. These red flag warnings are designed to advise people that any type of open flame outside can potentially start a serious wildfire.

OTHER SUGGESTIONS -

*Always use a grill that has a lid. When you use a grill that has a lid, you can

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>