9 Grilling Safety Tips (Helpful and Easy)
When it comes to grilling, it’s important to know the basics of grill safety.
The National Fire Protection Association reports that an average of 10 persons die in the US every year due to fires caused by grills.
The main cause of grill fires is failure to clean the grill before use and during lightning of the grill.
These grilling safety tips are meant to teach you how to grill safely.
1. Only Use Propane and Charcoal Grills Outdoors
Never ever grill with your grill indoors! It doesn’t matter if you have a gas grill or a charcoal grill.
Also don’t think about grilling in your garage, it’s a big risk for fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Also, store your propane tanks outside and away from any structures.
2. Keep Your Grill Clean
About 30% of all grilling fires are due to dirty, greasy grills. A grease fire can be difficult to extinguish.
Keep the drip pan and inside of your grill clean. My best advice is to clean your grill after each time you have been grilling.
4. Give Your Grill Plenty of Space
Place your grill away from any flammable structures. Don’t have decorations, tree branches, awnings, etc. near the grill.
5. Keep Your Grill Stable
Place your grill on a flat, level surface so it won’t tip over.
The grill should also be stable if somebody just bumps into it. Imagine your wooden deck covered with burning charcoal…
6. Never Leave the Grill Unattended
Never leave your barbecue grill unattended while it’s hot. You can get flare ups that can burn your food or worse.
Always keep kids and pets at a safe distance when grilling, you don’t want them to bump into the grill and burn themselves.
7. Safety Tips for Starting the Grill
- Gas grills:
- Check the gas grill for any gas leaks.
- Always light the grill with the lid open. If the lid is closed and the gas collects under the lid you can get an explosion when opening the lid.
- Charcoal grills
- Use a charcoal chimney starter for the best results. See how to use a starter chimney here: Weber Starter Chimney.
- Never spray lighter fluid on hot coals.
- If the flame goes out, wait until the coals are cold to relight.
7. Shut Down the Grill Properly
- Wait to put the cover on the grill until the grill is completely cold. This is very important for a charcoal grill where the coals can stay warm for hours.
- Dispose of charcoal and embers in appropriate containers.
- Don’t place the grill in the garage before you are absolutely sure all the fire is out.
8. Wear Appropriate Clothing and Have the Right Tools
Be careful wearing flammable clothing while grilling, especially dangling strings, scarves, etc.
Also always use proper grilling utensils with long handles not to burn your hands.
9. Be Prepared to Put Out a Fire
Always have a fire extinguisher or other means to put out a fire. If you have a natural gas grill make sure you know where the emergency shut-off valve is.
It’s also smart to have a spray bottle with water to use on flare ups from fat drips.
FAQ
What are four grilling safety guidelines?
The most crucial grilling safety guidelines are:
- Only use the grill outdoors.
- Give your hot grill plenty of space.
- Keep the grill stable.
- Always watch the grill when it’s warm.
How to keep a grill safe?
Remove grease build up inside the grill, and maintain the grill according to manufacturer guidelines. This is especially important for gas grills. A charcoal grill is much easier to maintain.
How do I know if my grill is safe?
Check the grill manufacturer’s guidelines for grill safety and maintenance. If you are not sure, get it inspected by a professional. This is mostly for gas barbecues.
What are the most important grilling safety tips for beginners?
The most important grilling safety tips for both charcoal and gas grilling are to grill with a clean grill, keep flammable material like wood railings, etc. away from the grill, and be prepared in case of a fire.
If you are going camping and will do some outdoor cooking, check out my recommendations for the best campfire cooking pots.
