Did you know that around 1 out of 5 grilling fires are caused by unclean grills?
That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association, which says that between 2020 and 2024, U.S. fire departments responded to more than 12,000 home fires involving grills, hibachis and barbecues. Those fires led to 15 deaths, 171 reported injuries and around $241 million in property damage.
The NFPA – a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating fire-related death, injury and economic loss – has tips for safe grilling:
- Check the propane tank for leaks.
- Keep the lid open when lighting a gas grill.
- Place the grill away from the home, deck railings, eaves and overhanging branches.
- Make sure kids and pets stay at least 3 feet away from the grilling area.
- Use only charcoal starting fluid when igniting a charcoal grill.
- Don’t add more fluid or other flammable liquids once a charcoal grill is lit.
- Let the coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
- Stay by a grill the entire time it’s in use.
- Remove all grease and fat buildup, including that on any trays below, when cleaning the grill.
