subject: How to Use Charcoal Barbecue Grill [print this page] To determine the temperature, put your hand over the coals and see how far you can keep it there. The longer time you can take means it is still on low heat and the shorter time, about two seconds means that it is ready for cooking. The best thing about charcoal barbeque grills is anyone can use them as long as they know the basics of grilling.