Can You Use A Charcoal BBQ Under A Gazebo?
Having a BBQ under a gazebo might seem like the perfect way to spend an afternoon. While grilling in a sheltered area does sound convenient, safety also needs to be considered. We explore the risks of BBQing in a gazebo and look into some possible solutions.
Using a charcoal BBQ under a standard gazebo is unsafe. Insufficient ventilation of smoke can harm you and your guests. Most gazebos are also made of flammable materials, which in turn poses a fire hazard. As a general rule, charcoal BBQs should only be used outside and in a clear space.
Obviously, this makes BBQing harder during those cold and wet months. Luckily, there is a way to keep on cooking safely – Read on to find out more!
Why Barbecuing Under A Gazebo Isn’t Safe
As previously mentioned, cooking in a standard gazebo is unsafe for two main reasons. The first, is lack of ventilation. In this case, the smoke being produced by the charcoal BBQ cannot easily escape. The accumulation of smoke can be harmful to the chef and any guests in the vicinity.
Most gazebos are also made from flammable materials, such as wood. This is a fire hazard, especially if you have a smaller gazebo. The closer the flames are to the structure itself, the greater the risk becomes. Additionally, this fire can spread if cooking in a compact space.
Can You BBQ Under A Grill Gazebo?
A grill gazebo is an enclosed area made purposely for cooking throughout the year. They are typically made from fire resistant materials for safety and are designed to allow sufficient levels of ventilation. Grill gazebos can house the BBQ itself, alongside a seating area for guests.While this type of gazebo can be expensive, the benefits are clear:
- Allows you to BBQ all year round, regardless of the weather conditions.
- Can be made exactly to your requirements.
- Offers an additional place to socialize and relax.
- Looks good and can enhance the appearance of your garden.
How To BBQ Under A Grill Gazebo
While the process of BBQing under a grill gazebo is similar to cooking outside, there are a few safety precautions you should take before lighting the coals:- Ensure that there is nothing blocking the air flow in and out of the grill gazebo.
- Keep the gazebo away from trees, tall grass, fencing and decking whenever possible.
- Remove all flammable materials before igniting the charcoal.
- Consider having a bucket of water on standby.
After these measures have been taken, you can proceed with starting the BBQ. Keep in mind that you should not leave the coals unattended at any time. Monitoring your BBQ closely will have an impact on the safety of guests, as well as the quality of cooked food.
