— By Brad Killen

Here are a few tips for BBQing safely: 

1. Make sure you are using a clean BBQ. Firstly clean BBQ is important for preventing the spread of bacteria and other contaminants. Before you start cooking, make sure to clean your grill thoroughly using a grill brush. This will help to remove any built-up grease and grime, and will create a clean cooking surface for your food.

2. Cook your food to the proper temperature. One of the key factors in preventing food poisoning is to make sure that your food is cooked to the proper temperature. This is particularly important for meat, as undercooked meat can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your food, and make sure it has reached the appropriate temperature before serving. 

3. Keep raw and cooked food separate. Another important tip for BBQing safely is to make sure that you keep raw and cooked food separate. This means using separate cutting boards, utensils, and platters for raw and cooked food. This will help to prevent cross-contamination, which is when bacteria from raw food is transferred to cooked food.

4. Use the correct fuel for your BBQ. Not all fuels are suitable for all BBQs, so it is important to use the correct fuel for your particular grill. For example, charcoal grills should only be used with charcoal briquettes, and gas grills should only be used with the type of gas specified by the manufacturer. Using the wrong fuel can create a safety hazard and can also affect the performance of your BBQ. 

5. Finally, make sure to keep an eye on your food while it is cooking. This will help to prevent accidents and ensure that your food is cooked properly. Keep a close eye on the temperature of your food using a meat thermometer, and make sure to check it frequently to ensure that it is being cooked evenly. If you notice any issues, such as flare-ups or uneven cooking, take action to address them immediately.