Can I use a portable charcoal grill on an apartment balcony?

Check your building rules and local fire codes first — many prohibit open flame grills on balconies within 10 feet of a structure. If allowed, use the grill on a heat-resistant surface, keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and never leave it unattended. Portable grills with short legs should sit on a table, not directly on a wooden deck or balcony floor. The Weber Smokey Joe's small footprint works well on balconies where grilling is permitted.

How do I control temperature on a small charcoal grill?

Use the dampers — bottom damper controls airflow to the coals, top damper controls exhaust. More air means hotter fire. For high heat (searing): both dampers wide open with a full layer of charcoal. For medium heat: bottom damper half open. For indirect cooking: push coals to one side and place food on the opposite side. On portable grills, the amount of charcoal matters more than on full-size grills because the smaller firebox amplifies temperature changes.

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