Skip to main content

Safety Guidelines

Your safety is our top priority. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and positive co-smoking experience. Remember: you'll be cooking together, so communication and mutual respect are key.

Important Safety Notice

If you feel unsafe at any time or witness suspicious behavior, trust your instincts and contact us immediately. For emergencies, always call local authorities first.

General Safety Tips

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels wrong or makes you uncomfortable, trust your gut. You are never obligated to proceed with a transaction that makes you feel unsafe.

Communicate Through Our Platform

Keep all communication within Share The Smoke's messaging system. This helps us assist you if any issues arise and provides a record of your interactions.

Verify Identity and Information

Review user profiles, ratings, and reviews before agreeing to a transaction. Complete profiles with verified information indicate more trustworthy users.

Meet Safely

Since sessions happen at the host's location, let someone know where you'll be. Choose daytime sessions when starting out, and don't hesitate to bring a friend if you're more comfortable.

Protect Personal Information

Don't share sensitive personal information like your full address, financial details, or passwords until you've established trust through the platform.

For Smoker Owners

  • Connect with guests carefully: Review profiles and communicate before accepting requests to join your session
  • Set clear expectations: Let guests know what space is available, what time to arrive, and any house rules
  • Supervise your smoker: You're responsible for your equipment, so be present and help guests understand how to use your setup safely
  • Secure your property: Since guests will be at your location, don't leave valuable items unattended
  • Verify identification: Consider asking to see ID when meeting guests for the first time
  • Trust reviews: Previous guest behavior is often a good indicator of future conduct
  • Have a plan: Know what you'll do if equipment is damaged or not returned

For Smoker Guests

  • Arrive on time and prepared: Bring your meat ready to smoke and arrive when agreed
  • Follow the host's guidance: Listen to instructions about how to use their smoker safely and respect their setup
  • Practice fire safety: Work with the host to tend the smoker safely; both parties should be aware of fire safety
  • Be respectful: You're a guest in someone's space. Help clean up, be considerate, and show appreciation
  • Communicate issues immediately: Contact the owner right away if you notice any problems
  • Be transparent: Honestly disclose your experience level and what you plan to cook so the host can help you succeed
  • Stay for your agreed time: Don't overstay your welcome, but also plan to be present to tend your meat throughout the cook

Equipment Safety

Before Using a Smoker

  • Inspect all parts and ensure they're in good working condition
  • Read the manufacturer's instructions if available
  • Check fuel sources and connections for leaks or damage
  • Set up the smoker on a stable, level, non-flammable surface
  • Keep smoker away from structures, overhangs, and flammable materials
  • Ensure adequate ventilation

During Use

  • Never leave a smoker unattended while it's hot or in use
  • Keep children and pets at a safe distance
  • Use appropriate heat-resistant gloves and tools
  • Monitor temperature and never exceed equipment limits
  • Have a fire extinguisher readily available
  • Watch for flare-ups and grease fires
  • Stay alert—avoid alcohol or substances that impair judgment

After Use

  • Allow equipment to cool completely before moving or storing
  • Properly dispose of ashes and coals (ensure they're completely extinguished)
  • Clean the smoker according to owner instructions
  • Inspect for damage before returning
  • Store fuel sources safely and separately

Food Safety

  • Cook to safe temperatures: Use a meat thermometer to ensure food reaches safe internal temperatures
  • Prevent cross-contamination: Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods
  • Keep hot food hot: Maintain food at 140°F (60°C) or above
  • Store properly: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F/32°C)
  • Clean equipment: Ensure smoker is clean before use to prevent contamination

Recognizing and Reporting Issues

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Requests to communicate or transact outside the platform
  • Pressure to make quick decisions without proper consideration
  • Unwillingness to meet in person or video chat before transactions
  • Profiles with no reviews or incomplete information
  • Prices that seem too good to be true
  • Aggressive, threatening, or inappropriate behavior
  • Requests for unusual payment methods

How to Report Concerns

If you experience or witness any of the following, please report it immediately:

  • Harassment, threats, or inappropriate behavior
  • Suspected fraud or scams
  • Safety hazards with equipment
  • Violations of our terms of service
  • Damaged or unsafe equipment
  • Identity theft or impersonation

Insurance and Liability

Share The Smoke is a platform that connects users but does not provide insurance coverage. Since you'll be cooking together at the host's property, we recommend:

  • Hosts: Check your homeowners insurance covers guests on your property
  • Guests: Understand your liability as a guest in someone's home
  • Both parties: Be clear about who's responsible for what during the cook
  • Documenting agreements in writing (our platform messages serve as a written record)

Please review our Terms of Service for complete information about liability and responsibilities.

Emergency Contacts

  • Fire/Medical Emergency: Call 911 (or your local emergency number)
  • Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 (US)
  • Non-Emergency Police: Check your local police department number
  • Share The Smoke Safety Concerns: Contact us

Additional Resources

For more information about staying safe while using Share The Smoke:

Stay Safe, Stay Connected

By following these safety guidelines, you help create a trustworthy community where everyone can enjoy great BBQ safely. If you have suggestions for improving our safety guidelines, please let us know.

← Back to Home