Outdoor Cooking

Fire from Grill

Here are some simple tips that can make you aware of the best practices for grilling safety. Many of these come from lessons learned after actual fire incidents.

Applicable to All Grill Types

  • Only use grills outdoors. Grilling inside, even in a garage with the vehicle door fully open, can ignite combustibles or fill interior spaces with deadly gases such as carbon monoxide (CO). Remember that CO is an odorless gas and an asphyxiant that can suffocate your body.
  • Even outside, position grills away from other outdoor combustibles such as trees, shrubs, overhangs, and siding.
  • Keep your grill clean and free of grease accumulations that can cause dangerous flare-ups.
  • Cook using long-handled tools in order to prevent or minimize burns.
  • Keep grills away from high traffic areas such as pathways and play areas to avoid knocking over a grill and causing injuries or fires.
  • Keep children and pets away from the grill to prevent or minimize injuries.

House_Fire_from_Grill

Grilling With Charcoal

  • Only use approved starter fluid and store it in a safe area away from children and heat sources.
  • Avoid adding more starter fluid to already burning coals; the exposed flames or heat can literally ignite the vapors emitted by the liquid and continue into the container.

Grilling With Propane

  • Store propane gas cylinders outside or in areas that are not part of the living spaces of the residence. If you store a gas grill inside during the winter, disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside.
  • Only use equipment endorsed by an independent testing laboratory.
  • Follow all manufacturer directions.
  • Check the cylinder and hose for leaks on a regular basis, especially before using it for the first time each season or if it hasn't been used in a while. While the cylinder is on and attached to the grill, apply a light soap and water solution to the hose and observe for bubbles that are growing in size. f you see this, there is a leak and you need to turn off the propane cylinder and replace the hose before again using the grill.
  • If you smell leaking gas, immediately distance yourself and others from the drill and 9-1-1..
  • If you experience any unusual problems while grilling, turn off the gas at the tank and at the grill.