It happens every year. The weather gets warmer, more people use outdoor grills – and the number of injuries involving grills goes up. In 2017-2021, an average of 22,155 patients per year went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Regardless of the type of grill you own it’s important to take appropriate safety measures to protect your family and your property. Here are 9 BBQ safety tips that will help keep you and your home safe throughout barbecuing season:
1. Grill outside and away from any structures
Charcoal and gas grills are designed for outdoor use only. However, NFPA reports that more than one-quarter (27%) of home fires started by outdoor grills began in a courtyard, terrace or patio, and 29% started on an exterior balcony or open porch. Pay attention to overhanging tree branches when you set up your grill. [1]
2. Make sure your grill is stable
Only set up your grill on a flat surface and make sure the grill can’t be tipped over. Consider using a grill pad or splatter mat underneath your grill to protect your deck or patio.
3. Keep your grill clean
Remove grease or fat buildup from both the grill and the tray below the grill. If you are using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to completely cool off before disposing of them in a metal container.[1]
4. Check for propane leaks on your gas grill
Before the season’s first barbecue, check the gas tank hose for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there is a propane leak, the solution will bubble. Other signs of a propane leak include the smell of gas near the barbecue or a flame that won’t light.[1]
5. If the flame goes out, wait to re-light
If you are using a gas grill and the flame goes out, turn the grill and the gas off, then give any latent gas time to disperse before lighting it again.
6. Take care around the grill
Never leave a lit grill unattended. Don’t allow kids or pets to play near the grill. Never try to move a lit or hot grill, and remember the grill can stay hot for at least an hour after use.[1]
7. Be careful with charcoal starter fluid
If you use a charcoal grill, only use charcoal starter fluid. If the fire starts to go out, don’t add any starter fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. [1]
8. Wear the right clothing
Clothing can easily catch fire, so be sure your shirt tails, sleeves or apron strings don’t dangle over the grill. Also, wear appropriate footwear to protect your feet from incidental hot grease or coals that may spill from the grill.
9. Be ready to put out the fire
Have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire and a fire extinguisher nearby for other fires. Never use water to put out grease fire.
These easy-to-follow tips can help you and your family to enjoy a safe summer barbecuing season.
Sources:
[1] “Grilling Safety Facts & Resources”, nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/grilling#safety-tips (Accessed March 2025).
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