Grilling Safety Tips for Summer BBQs

Hot to handle

According to recent National Fire Protection Association data, fire departments respond to over 11,000 home fires involving grills each year, causing about $37 million in property damage, around 100 injuries, and roughly 10 deaths annually. Most grill fires start because of problems with gas grills—such as leaks, breaks, or lack of cleaning. More than 22,000 people visit emergency rooms every year due to grill-related injuries, many of them burns.

In the rare instance of a grill fire spreading to your property, your homeowner’s insurance provides financial protection, as fire is a covered peril. A standard policy covers:

• Damage to the house itself
• Damage to personal possessions, such as lawn furniture
• Damage to insured structures on your property, such as a shed or gazebo
• Injuries to a guest, under the liability portion of the policy

Of course, the best way to enjoy a summer of outdoor barbecues is to take steps to prevent accidents, and take fast action should any occur.

– Related Article –
4 Reasons to Review Your Homeowners Insurance this Summer

Properly maintain and store your grill

Gas grills are generally safe if they are properly designed, constructed, maintained, and regularly checked for leaks. Follow these updated safety tips at the start of each grilling season:

• Check for Recalls: Visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website to verify that your grill model hasn’t been recalled. Grill recalls occur regularly; consider signing up for CPSC email alerts for timely notifications.

• Inspect Grill Hoses: Look for cracks, holes, brittleness, or signs of wear.

• Clear Blockages: Check for obstructions (e.g., spiders, insects, or food drippings) in the Venturi tubes leading to the burners. Clean with a wire or pipe cleaner.

• Test for Leaks: Use a solution of one part liquid soap to one part water on hoses and connections. Open the valve and watch for bubbles to indicate leaks. If you see bubbles or smell gas, turn off the gas immediately and call 911 if the leak continues or cannot be controlled safely.

• Reposition Hoses: Keep hoses away from hot areas or spots where grease might drip.

• Clean Grill Grates and Trays: Grease and food residue buildup is a leading cause of grill fires. Clean the grill and drip trays thoroughly before the first use each season and regularly throughout.

• Cover When Cooled: Protect grill parts from weather, insects, and falling debris with a cover—only when the grill is completely cooled.

• Propane Tank Storage: Store propane tanks upright, outdoors, and away from your house. Never store tanks indoors, in garages, in vehicles, or under the grill.

Practice Safe Barbeque Habits

Common-sense habits go a long way in preventing accidents:

• Grill Placement:

  • Use your grill at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, deck railings, and overhanging branches.

  • Never grill in garages, covered porches, balconies, or under eaves.

  • Operate the grill on a flat, level surface.

• Fire Safety:

  • Keep an ABC-rated fire extinguisher nearby. Ensure everyone knows its location and how to use it.

  • Do not move the grill while in use.

• Children & Pets:

  • Create a safety zone at least 3 feet around the grill. Supervise and keep children and pets out of this zone.

• Personal Protection:

  • Use a heavy apron and oven mitts that extend up your forearms. Select long-handled utensils designed for grilling.

• Lighting Precautions:

  • Always open the grill lid before lighting to prevent gas buildup and flash burns.

• Charcoal Grilling:

  • Use only lighter fluid intended for grilling—never gasoline or other flammable liquids. Never add more lighter fluid after lighting.

• Ventilation:

  • Never grill indoors or in enclosed areas. Both gas and charcoal grills produce carbon monoxide, which is fatal in enclosed spaces.

• After Grilling:

  • Wait for the grill to cool before covering or storing.

  • Let charcoal coals cool completely, then soak them thoroughly with water before disposing of them in a non-combustible container.

Know What to Do in Case of an Accident

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. Here’s what to do:

• Fires:

  • Use a fire extinguisher only if it is safe to do so.

  • If the fire is not immediately controlled, call 911—fires can spread rapidly.

• Burns:

  • Run cool water over minor burns immediately.

  • Do not use bandages, butter, or salves on burns. For serious burns, seek immediate medical care or call 911.

• Property Damage:

  • Once injuries are treated and it is safe, assess property damage. Contact your insurance professional to report claims as needed.

Quick Safety Checklist

• Clean the grill and drip trays before first use of the season and throughout the summer.

• Place grill at least 10 feet from all buildings and flammable objects.

• Never use a grill indoors or on an enclosed patio/balcony.

• Store propane tanks upright, outside, and away from structures.

• Inspect hoses for leaks with soapy water—never use open flames.

• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill at all times.

• Keep an ABC fire extinguisher nearby with proper training.

Remember that barbecues are all about great food, good company, and making memories. With the right precautions, you can relax and enjoy the season—knowing you’ve minimized risks for yourself, your guests, and your home. Still, even the most careful grill masters can’t predict everything.

Before you fire up your grill, take a few moments to review your homeowners insurance policy and make sure your coverage is up to date. That way, you’ll keep the good times rolling with peace of mind, no matter what the summer brings.

Cheers to safe, fun, and delicious barbecues!