Grilling Safety

It’s grilling season, and there’s nothing quite like an outdoor cookout with friends and family. 

Based on 2017-2021 annual averages, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has labeled July as the “peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August.” 

Based on these annual averages: 

• The grill had not been cleaned in roughly one-fifth of the fires.
• More than one-quarter of grill structure fires started on an exterior balcony or open porch. 
• Gas grills were involved in an average of 9,079 home fires per year. 
• An average of 22,155 patients per year went to the emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills. 

For the safety of you, your family/friends, and your belongings, the NFPA has put together a list of tips for any griller to follow: 

• For propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks before use in the months ahead. 
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. 
• Place the grill away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. 
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it. 
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area. 
• If you use starter fluid when charcoal grilling, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. When you have or are finishing grilling, let the coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container. 
• Never leave your grill unattended when in use.