Summer cookouts bring friends, family, and flavor to the backyard. Unfortunately, they also bring risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grills cause more than 10,000 home fires each year, while nearly 20,000 people end up in emergency rooms with grilling injuries. Many of these incidents are preventable, often caused by unattended cooking, improper grill placement, or propane mishandling.
To keep your cookouts safe and enjoyable, we put together this guide with the most important BBQ safety tips for both gas and charcoal grills. Whether you are smoking a brisket or grilling burgers, these practices will help you cook with confidence.
General BBQ Safety Rules Everyone Should Follow
Before diving into grill-specific advice, here are universal safety tips every pitmaster should follow:
- Keep grills at least 10 feet away from buildings, fences, overhangs, decks, and low tree branches.
- Never leave a lit grill unattended. Fires spread quickly.
- Create a kid- and pet-free zone of at least 3 feet around the grill.
- Clean grease and food debris regularly to prevent flare-ups.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and make sure everyone knows how to use it.
- Avoid loose clothing or apron ties near flames.
- Use long-handled BBQ tools to keep a safe distance from the heat.
Gas Grill Safety Tips
Gas grills are convenient, but they require careful handling to prevent accidents.
- Open the lid before lighting the grill to prevent gas buildup and flash fires.
- Check for leaks by brushing soapy water on hoses and fittings. If bubbles appear, there is a leak.
- Never leave a gas grill unattended, especially during preheating.
- Turn off gas at both the control knobs and the propane tank when finished.
- Store propane tanks upright, outdoors, and away from windows, dryer vents, or heat sources.
- Do not smoke or use open flames near propane tanks.
▶️ Watch: How to Light a Gas Grill Safely
Charcoal Grill Safety Tips
Charcoal grilling delivers unmatched flavor, but it comes with its own risks.
- Use only charcoal lighter fluid, never gasoline or kerosene.
- Never add lighter fluid to hot coals.
- Handle flare-ups by moving food away from direct flames.
- Allow coals to cool completely before disposal. Place ashes in a metal container with a lid.
▶️ Watch: Charcoal Grill Safety Demo
Final Thoughts: Safe Grilling = Better BBQ
Grilling is one of summer’s greatest pleasures, but it comes with responsibility. Following these safety tips can prevent injuries, save property, and keep your cookouts stress-free. Keep the fire under your ribs, not on your deck, and you will enjoy many more safe and tasty summer BBQs.
Quick BBQ Safety Checklist
| ✅ Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Check gas hose for leaks | Before every use |
| Clean grill grates and drip trays | Weekly |
| Keep fire extinguisher nearby | Always |
| Maintain 10 ft distance from structures | Always |
| Never leave grill unattended | Always |
| Dispose of coals safely | After grilling |
Sources & Further Reading
