Grilling Safety: How to Stay Safe While Having Fun
- Luke Song
- Aug 17
- 3 min read
Grilling is an extremely popular method for cooking food, especially during the summer months. However, alongside the outdoor fun comes an increased risk of fires. July was reported to be the peak month for grilling fires, followed by June, May, and then August. Although we are halfway through August, the risk is still very real, especially during weekend gatherings when the grill is in use. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), gas grills are involved in an average of 9,287 home fires each year. In order to ensure your safety while using the grill, it is important to remember a few key safety tips.
One of the simplest yet most effective safety measures you can take is to keep your grill clean. In 20% of grill fires, the grill was not cleaned properly. Residual grease from grilling can ignite when the grill cover is closed. Aside from residual grease, nests from small insects or spiders can obstruct gas flow. These gases will then attempt to escape out of the air shutter, which results in ignition as well. After each use, make sure to be extra cautious to areas where grease easily builds up, such as under the burners and the grease cup.
Another important detail when grilling involves the location of the grill. It is recommended to always use your grill outdoors (well-ventilated), and as far away from houses, garages, and fences as possible. Covered balconies or patios can also pose hazards, as they trap heat, and potentially flammable gases. Enclosed spaces are especially dangerous because they allow carbon monoxide to build up, putting everyone at risk of poisoning. The ideal location for a grill is in a wide and open space, reducing the chance of fire spreading.
For propane grills, routine leak checks are essential. Propane is highly flammable, and can ignite with even the smallest spark. Additionally, inhaling propane can cause health problems such as nausea and headaches. An easy way to check for leaks is to apply a soap and water solution to the hose while the gas is turned on. If you see bubbles forming, then a leak has occurred and should be fixed before using the grill. These leaks should not be repaired with tape or sealants, as they are ineffective under pressure. Instead, the safest approach is to replace the faulty hose or regulator with a new part. These replacement parts can be found at hardware stores, or can be purchased from the girls manufacturer. Once the hose is repaired or a new one is installed, it is important to perform the soap and water test again to ensure the leak is fully fixed.
Being prepared for flare-ups and staying attentive while grilling are both crucial for safety. Keep a spray bottle filled with bottles nearby to quickly extinguish small flames before they spread. Although small fires are common while grilling, extinguishing them will help to prevent any large-scale fires. However, in the case of a larger fire, having an ABC extinguisher within reach is important. Distraction is a common cause of preventable accidents. If you need to step away while grilling, make sure to ask someone to monitor the grill until you return.
For many households, grilling is one of the many highlights of summer. By taking a few precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of serious fires and accidents.
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-Written by Anna Zhao
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