The BBQ season has officially begun! Yet, before you send out the first invitations to your garden grill party, it’s essential to make sure the space is safe for everyone. Indeed, the typical BBQ gathering happens mostly outdoor. So, you need to consider potential risks in your garden and ensure you can keep these at bay:
- Burns
- Excessive sun exposure
- Pests
- Toxic plants
- Dehydration
Getting familiar with the grill
The main actor in your BBQ party is the BBQ itself. So, if you are collecting delicious marinade recipes and tips on how to grill corn on the cob, make sure as well to learn how to use the grill safely. Too many burning accidents occur during grilling parties as people don’t know how to safely start and maintain a fire. Make safety a priority!
Don’t stay outdoor without sun protection
It takes no longer than 20 minutes to catch a sunburn. The spring months may be less hot than summer, but it doesn’t mean it’s safe to stay in the sun without sunscreen protection. It may be a good idea to keep a basket with sunscreen lotion by the BBQ table. Ideally, you want to pick SPF 30 protection for the exposed skin on your face, arms, and hands, which is what most dermatologists recommend as the minimum protection.
Remember as well to reapply regularly during the day. Wearing a hat and long sleeves doesn’t replace sunscreen protection.
You will also need a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Remove garden pests
Garden pests can turn your BBQ party into a nightmare. So, before inviting everyone to come to your outdoor gathering, it’s a good idea to check your garden for bugs, insects, and other unpleasant critters. These could affect your family and visitors in many ways. They could sting and lead to discomfort or even allergic reactions. They could also disrupt the party by flying over and invading the table and food. If you are worried about pest infestation, it may be safer to plan for removal before organizing the party.
Avoid toxic plants
Young children and pets are likely to play in the garden. They may touch or even eat poisonous plants without knowing it. It’s important to create a safe environment for younger guests and animals to ensure that your garden party can be a success. Some of the plants to avoid include:
- Daffodil
- Water hemlock
- Hydrangea
- Monkshood
- Philodendron
- Lily-of-the-valley
Stay hydrated
It’s tough to stay hydrated when you are having fun outside! Younger guests, especially, and pets, are most likely to get dehydrated in the sun as they play and enjoy the warm weather. If you have dogs and cats, you may want to keep a bowl of fresh water outside, preferably in the shade.
As for children, make sure to refill their glasses frequently. You can even make water more exciting to drink with flavored water and fun-looking ice cubes.
Are you ready to plan the first BBQ party of the year? Keep your guests and loved ones safe with these few safety tips. And remember to have fun and enjoy the day together!