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Avoid Catastrophes

Planning is key: Locate your grill at least 10 feet away from fences, buildings or other flammable materials, and keep additional fuel in a safe place. Have a designated place for raw and cooked food and don’t mix the two—no one wants food poisoning to follow a great barbecue! Use separate utensils, too.

Put as much as possible out for your guests to help themselves—condiments, napkins, plates, cups and glasses, etc. Avoid glass in case of accidents and remember children’s safety if you’re serving hot drinks or soup. Small tables are useful for serving and for eating.

Once you’re prepared, you’ll be able to relax with your guests when your winter grilling party gets going.

Photo: Nikolaev Mikhail/Shutterstock

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Smoke for Added Flavor

Winter is the perfect time to use a cold smoker to add superb flavor to your food before grilling. You can smoke fish, bacon and steak, which all taste delicious when grilled. You can also make your own pulled pork. Smoking food is a long and slow process, requiring a constant low heat, so investing in a thermal blanket to insulate against the cold helps reduce the amount of fuel you need.

Once smoked, your fish and meat will be ready for grilling when your guests arrive, giving you a whole new range of delicious flavors to explore.

Photo: Stuart Monk/Shutterstock

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