Grill Safety Tips to Keep Your Summer Cookouts Fun and Accident-Free

Nothing says summer like firing up the grill for burgers, steaks, or your favorite barbecue recipes. While outdoor grilling is a favorite tradition for many families, it also comes with serious safety risks if proper precautions aren't taken. A few simple steps can help you prevent fires, avoid injuries, and enjoy your cookout with peace of mind.

Steak and vegetables sizzle on a grill, enveloped in flames and smoke.

Grilling Fires by the Numbers

Grilling accidents are more common than many people realize. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grill fires increase significantly during the warmer months, with July and June each accounting for 15% of annual grill fires. May follows closely behind at 13%, and August accounts for another 11%.

Other important statistics include:

• About 20% of grill fires were linked to grills that had not been cleaned properly.

• Nearly one in four grill structure fires started on an exterior balcony or open porch.

• Gas grills are involved in more than 9,000 home fires each year, with gas leaks and damaged hoses contributing to many incidents.

• Between 2020 and 2024, an average of more than 21,000 people visited emergency rooms annually for grill-related injuries.

These numbers highlight why grilling safety should always be part of your cookout plans.

Prepare Your Grill Before You Cook

Before your first barbecue of the season (or anytime you use your grill) take a few minutes to inspect it.

If you use a propane grill:

• Check the gas tank, hose, regulator, and connections for leaks using a mixture of soap and water. If bubbles appear when the gas is turned on, you have a leak. Turn off the gas immediately and repair the issue before using the grill.

• Always open the grill lid before lighting it to prevent gas from building up inside.

For every type of grill:

• Clean away grease and food residue from cooking grates and drip trays.

• Remove any accumulated grease that could ignite during cooking.

Safe Grilling Starts with Proper Placement

Where you place your grill matters just as much as how you use it.

Always position your grill:

• At least several feet away from your home, deck railings, fences, and other structures.

• Away from overhanging tree branches and roof eaves.

• In an area clear of foot traffic, lawn games, and children's play spaces.

Never use a grill in enclosed spaces such as garages or under covered porches unless the manufacturer specifically approves it.

Keep Kids and Pets Safe

Grills become extremely hot and can cause serious burns long after the cooking is finished.

Create a "kid-free zone" of at least three feet around the grill, and make sure children and pets stay outside this area at all times. Keep items like towels, paper plates, food packaging, and oven mitts away from open flames as well.

A propane grill stands ready for use on a wooden porch.

Charcoal Grilling Safety

If you're using a charcoal grill, follow these important guidelines:

• Use only charcoal starter fluid designed specifically for charcoal grills.

• Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a fire.

• Never add lighter fluid to burning or already hot coals.

• Consider using a charcoal chimney starter to light coals safely.

Long-handled grilling tools can also help keep your hands farther away from heat and flames while cooking.

Never Leave the Grill Unattended

One of the easiest ways to prevent a fire is to stay with your grill while it's in use. Whether you're grilling at home, camping, or enjoying a day at the park, always have a responsible adult monitoring the fire.

If you're grilling in a public park or campground:

• Check local regulations before lighting a grill or campfire.

• Be aware of fire restrictions or burn bans.

• Monitor weather conditions and fire danger ratings before cooking outdoors.

Properly Dispose of Charcoal

Once you're finished cooking, don't rush to throw away hot coals.

Instead:

• Allow the coals to cool completely.

• Douse them thoroughly with water before leaving the area.

• Place cooled coals in a dedicated metal container with a tight-fitting lid.

• Store the container outdoors and away from combustible materials.

Never dump hot coals directly into a trash can, as they can reignite hours later.

A person pours water over hot coals in a metal trashcan.

Enjoy Every Cookout Safely

Outdoor grilling should create great memories, not emergency situations. By inspecting your grill, keeping it clean, maintaining a safe cooking area, and never leaving flames unattended, you can greatly reduce the risk of fire and injury.

A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference, helping you enjoy delicious meals while keeping your family, guests, and home safe throughout grilling season.

For more information about firework safety, please visit: https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/grilling#resources