One of the most important things to do after buying an appliance is to read the manufacturer’s manual, which comes with instructions on how to use it safely. Outdoor pizza ovens also come with a manual. However, too many people ignore reading the instructions and dive right into using the appliance. To avoid potential hazards, it is important to follow a number of common safety tips. These include:
1. Never Leave It Unattended
An outdoor pizza oven can get extremely hot while in use. You should always remain in clear view of your oven and make sure that children and pets do not come near the burner.
2. Use It Outdoors Only
While this may seem like a frivolous point, it is common for some people to use an outdoor pizza oven indoors. Some use it to heat or warm enclosed areas. This is extremely risky. Never use an outdoor pizza oven in enclosed areas such as buildings, garages or even on boats and vehicles.
3. Place It on a Level, Sturdy Surface
Having your outdoor pizza oven on a level sturdy surface minimizes the chances of accidents. If placed on an uneven or weak surface, it can easily tip over and end up causing a lot of harm to those around.
4. Do Not Move the Oven While in Use
It can be extremely dangerous to try to move the pizza oven while it is in use. Always let it cool down to safe temperatures before moving or storing it.
5. Use Insulated Gloves
Even after an oven has cooled down for a while, it is still too hot to handle with bare hands. Use insulated oven mitts or gloves to move it safely.
6. Turn off the Gas When the Oven Is Not in Use
For gas-fired outdoor pizza ovens, make sure that the gas cylinder is always switched off. Unless the cylinder is turned off and disengaged from the outdoor pizza oven, it should never be stored indoors.
7. Keep Away from Combustible Material
It is always important to operate your pizza oven a safe distance from any flammable substance. For instance, do not operate it within 25 feet of any flammable material.
8. Ensure Proper Installation
To ensure safety, have your outdoor pizza oven installed in accordance with the local or national installation codes.
9. Inspect the Hoses Before Use
With time, the hoses are exposed to elements that cause it to wear out. Always inspect them beforehand to ensure safe operation. If the hose has signs of excessive abrasion or wear, have it replaced immediately.
10. Avoid Operating the Oven While under the Influence
Operating an outdoor pizza oven when under the influence could expose you and others to harm. You should also not operate it if you are taking prescription or non-prescription drugs that affect your mental state.
11. Keep It Away from Windy Areas
While the outdoor pizza oven needs proper ventilation, do not install it in an extremely windy area. Always have it installed in an area shielded from the wind.
12. Remove the Ashes after Use
Exposed and unattended ashes can easily cause fire. Always remove the hot ashes from your oven before storing it away. Take precautions to protect yourself as you do so. After removing the ashes, place it in a non-combustible container and completely saturate it with water. Dispose of the mixture after 24 hours to ensure that it has completely cooled off.
If you are planning to hold a pizza party, an outdoor pizza oven will definitely be the centre of attraction. However, besides ensuring that it cooks the most delicious pizzas your guests’ taste buds have ever sampled, you should take extreme care while using it to avoid mishaps. If you follow the above safety tips, the only thing you may have to worry about is the timely arrival of your guests.
