There’s nothing like firing up the grill on a summer afternoon. With the smell of charcoal in the air it’s also a sure…fire…way for the neighbors to invite themselves over.
But before you toss those burgers on, it’s worth taking a few minutes to think about grilling safety, because the truth is, grill fires send thousands of people to emergency rooms every single year.
At C.T. Lowndes, we’ve been helping protect South Carolina families since 1850, and we’ve seen firsthand how a backyard barbecue can turn into a stressful insurance claim in just seconds.
That’s why we put together this list of grilling safety tips to help you enjoy the season with confidence. If you have questions about how your homeowners policy covers grill-related accidents, give us a call.
1. Always Grill in a Safe Location
You’re the king of the BBQ and you want to hang with your guests but your grill needs space to breathe, and so do the people around it. Set up your grill on a level surface at least ten feet away from your home, deck railings, and any overhanging branches.
Never grill inside a garage, porch, or other enclosed space, even with the door open. Carbon monoxide buildup and stray sparks make this one of the most common causes of serious grill fires.
2. Never Leave the Grill Unattended
This seems obvious, but it’s the rule most people break. Leaving a grill unattended, even for a quick run inside, gives flare ups and grease fires the chance they need to spread.
If you need to step away, ask someone to watch it or simply turn it off (gasp!). A few extra minutes of cooking time is always worth more than a kitchen fire.
3. Keep Your Grill Clean
Grease or fat buildup is the silent culprit behind a huge number of grill fires. After each cookout, give your grill a good scrub with a light soap and water solution, paying close attention to the grates and the drip pan below.
Removing grease and fat from the trays below the grill should be part of your routine. A clean grill is a safe grill, and it makes your food taste better too.
4. Check Your Gas Grill for Leaks
Before the first cookout of grilling season, test your gas grill for leaks. Mix a little soap and water in a spray bottle, then spray it on both the gas tank and the gas tank hose while the valve is open.
If you see the solution release bubbles, you have a gas leak. Turn off the tank immediately and don’t use the grill until the parts are replaced.
5. Know What to Do If You Smell Gas
If you smell gas while cooking, step away from the grill and shut off the gas tank right away. Do not try to move the grill or light it again.
If the smell continues after the tank is off, call the fire department from a safe distance. A propane leak is nothing to take lightly, and quick action prevents most gas grill fires.
6. Use Charcoal Starter Fluid the Right Way
If you love charcoal grills, only charcoal starter fluid should touch your coals, yes there’s a difference. Never use gasoline, lighter fluid meant for other purposes, or other flammable liquids to get your charcoal ready.
And here’s the big one: never add charcoal fluid to coals that are already lit. The flames can travel right up the stream and cause serious burn injuries.
7. Consider a Charcoal Chimney Starter
Our family’s favorite method: if you want to skip the fluid altogether, charcoal chimney starters are a fantastic alternative. They use newspaper and airflow to light your coals naturally, with no chemicals involved.
The National Fire Protection Association recommends them as one of the safest ways to start a charcoal grill. Plus, your food won’t have that lingering chemical taste.
8. Create a Kid Free Zone Around the Grill
Children and pets are naturally curious, and a hot grill is a magnet for trouble. Set up a three foot kid free zone around your grilling area and stick to it.
Avoid loose apron strings or dangling sleeves while cooking, and wear clothing that fits close to your body. Most injuries involving grills happen in a split second, so prevention is everything.
9. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Hope for the best, prepare for the rest. A small fire extinguisher rated for grease fires should live near your grilling area during peak month and beyond.
For grease fires specifically, never use water, because it will spread the flames. If a fire gets out of control, get everyone to a safe location and call the fire department.
10. Close the Gas Grill Lid Carefully
When lighting a gas grill, always keep the gas grill lid open. Closing the lid while gas is flowing can cause a buildup that leads to a dangerous flash when you finally ignite it.
Once the grill is lit and burning steadily, you can close the lid to cook food evenly. This small habit prevents one of the most common gas grill accidents.
11. Dispose of Charcoal Safely
After you’ve finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before touching them. This can take up to 48 hours, so don’t rush it.
Once cool, transfer the ashes to a metal container with a tight lid, keeping it away from your home and any flammable materials. Disposing in a metal container is the only safe way to handle used charcoal.
12. Have Your Grill Serviced Regularly
Just like your car, your grill needs occasional check ups. Have your gas grill serviced at the start of each season to inspect hoses, connections, and burners.
This is especially important for propane grills that sit outside through harsh winters. A little maintenance now prevents a fire hazard later.
Protecting What You’ve Built
Grilling is one of life’s simple pleasures, and a few smart habits can keep it that way. Following these grilling safety tips dramatically lowers your risk of a grease fire, propane leak, or trip to the emergency room.
But accidents do happen, even to careful people. That’s where having the right homeowners insurance comes in, and that’s where we come in. The team at C.T. Lowndes is here to walk you through your coverage and help you make sure your family and property are protected.
Reach out today for a friendly review of your policy.
People Also Ask These Questions About Grilling Safety
What is the most common cause of grill fires?
Grease or fat buildup on the grates and in trays below the grill is the leading cause. Regular cleaning is the single most effective way to prevent grill fires.
Can a grill be too close to the house?
Yes, and it’s a more common problem than people realize. Keep your grill at least ten feet from your home, deck railings, garage, and any overhanging branches to prevent the structure from catching fire.
Does homeowners insurance cover grill fires?
In most cases, yes, standard homeowners policies cover damage from grill fires, but coverage details vary. Call C.T. Lowndes if you’d like us to review your specific policy and answer any questions.
How do you check a gas grill for a propane leak?
Mix light soap and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the gas tank, gas tank hose, and connections while the valve is open. If you see bubbles, you have a leak and should shut off the tank immediately.
When is the peak month for grill fires?
July is the peak month for grill fires in the United States, followed closely by June and August. This is when grilling activity is highest, so extra attention to safety tips during summer is essential.
