Tailgate Parties: Top Food and Grilling Safety Tips

 Because they’re typically lively all-day outdoor events, tailgate parties can have some unintended consequences. Prevent yours from taking the wrong turn with these grilling and food safety tips: 

1. Clean. Sideline bacteria by starting with a clean, germ-free surface; think wet wipes and hand sanitizer. Food preparation is also important: When assembling foods for the tailgate party, for instance, pack uncooked meats separately from dips, salads and snacks to avoid cross-contamination. Wrap uncooked meats in plastic, and then seal the meat within a zip lock bag to prevent juice from dripping. 

2. Line up. Safety precautions when grilling are key. Keep your grill steady by keeping it a safe distance from the tailgate party goers.  You should also station it away from cars and in an open, well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide fumes from building.  

3. Cook. Turn up the heat while grilling. Use an instant-read food thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of your meats. Cook steaks to at least 145-degrees; ground meat to 160-degrees; and chicken and pork to 180-degrees. Serve grilled meats immediately. And never touch cooked foods with the same utensils you used to prepare raw meat. 

4. Defend. Prevent bacteria contamination by promptly packing away cooked meats, mayo-based salads, and dairy products, and keep leftovers on ice. If you can’t keep leftovers cool, play it safe and toss them out to prevent the temptation to munch on what could be bacteria-laden foods. 

5. Hydrate. Stay hydrated by alternating any alcoholic beverages with water. And keep beverages in a separate cooler from foods: Since guests frequently open the drink cooler, the ice will melt faster, raising the temperature (perishables need better temperature regulation). And it bears saying this for your personal safety: if you’re going to consume an alcoholic beverage, always designate a safe driver. 

6. Clean Up. Create a “neutral zone” for trash and food disposal, and toss leftover meat marinades, plastic cups, paper plates and uneaten foods as you go. Be sure to let coals cool before disposing of them in a metal container (look for designated bins). And, when packing up after the tailgate, be sure that the grill, coolers, table, chairs and tent do not block your rear window so that you can drive away safely. 

What are your favorite tailgating safety tips? 

Guest blogger Pauline Hammerbeck is an editor for The Allstate Blog, which helps people prepare for the unpredictability of life. 

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