Everything You Need for an Apartment Friendly BBQ

We’ve all heard horror stories about grilling on an apartment balcony or deck – melted siding, railings that catch fire, smoke flooding your (and your neighbors’) apartment. In general, grilling in your apartment or on the balcony is a recipe for disaster and a “sure-fire” way to lose your security deposit. There ways to enjoy a barbecue in your apartment, but you’ll want to follow a few guidelines:

Know the Rules

Check your state and apartment community’s grilling restrictions. In most cases, local laws and leases forbid using open-flame cooking devices on decks, patios, or within 10 feet of community structures.

Some communities allow balcony grilling if the deck or balcony includes an automatic sprinkler system. Even with these systems, most managers prohibit gas grills and propane tanks exceeding one pound. Some apartment complexes ban all cooking on balconies and decks, including the use of electric grills. Ensure you understand your community’s specific rules.

Choose an Electric Grill

Generally, very few safety restrictions prohibit electric grills on your patio or balcony. While an electric grill won’t produce the smoky barbecue taste associated with open flames, you can still achieve a nice char—and enjoy a healthier meal! You can also use electric grills indoors; if rain ruins your Fourth of July party, you can still entertain guests inside.

Learn How to Use Your Equipment

Understanding how your grilling equipment is intended to be used is essential. The National Fire Incident Reporting System shows that misuse of grilling equipment accounts for almost half of all grill fires. Use proper cooking methods and learn how your grill works. Follow these guidelines to help you stay safe:

• Always plug electric grills into a grounded outlet.
• Keep cords out of walkways to prevent tripping or upsetting the electric grill.
• Clean the grill grates after each use to remove grease and buildup.

Take Advantage of Community Grills

Many luxury apartment communities include clubhouses and outdoor grilling spaces where you can entertain friends or just grill up a steak for dinner. Not only can these amenities prevent you from setting your balcony on fire, but you can also host a larger party (without crowding everyone onto your balcony). Learn the rules for using community space, clean up after yourself, and follow basic grilling safety tips:

• For charcoal grills, stack coals into a pyramid before adding lighter fluid; wait approximately one minute before lighting coals.
• Never use more than ¼ cup of lighter fluid per one pound of charcoal.
• When using a gas grill, always check that you have connected the propane properly to the tank.
• Always turn off the propane and check that you have fully extinguished the coals after you finish cooking.

Never Leave ANY Grill Unattended

Whether you live in an apartment or a house, a spark can jump onto your patio cushions, or a breeze can carry sparks into your living room in just a second. Even an electric grill poses a danger—knocking it over or experiencing a short can start a fire or cause serious burns. If you need to step away for a moment, designate an adult to watch the grill while you are busy.

With a little creativity, you can plan a safe apartment barbecue! Use your common sense, follow the rules, and have a great summer.