There’s no better feeling than firing up the grill for the first time of the season. As warm sun overtakes unpredictable spring weather, a BBQ is a great way to kick off summer. However, grills are a considerable fire risk. Brush up on your grill safety knowledge before you start cooking!
All Grills
Grease Fire
Grease buildup is common on most grills. If you experience a grease fire, take the following steps.
- Never throw water on a grease fire.
- Keep baking soda or sand nearby to throw on out of control flames.
- Turn off your BBQ burners and close lid.
- You can also use a fire extinguisher rated for Class B fires such as the multi-purpose dry chemical extinguisher or the dry chemical-carbon dioxide extinguisher.
- When in doubt, evacuate the area and call 911.
Between Uses
No matter what type of grill you have, clean after every use.
- Wipe down the outside of your grill to remove excess grease and food.
- Brush grates when still warm to easily remove stuck-on food.
- Don’t forget to put the lid on your grill when not in use.
Grill Outside
Pay attention to your BBQ spot.
- Never grill inside. All grills give off carbon monoxide.
- Grill outside 10 feet away from your house or any other structure.
- Clear away low hanging tree branches or decorations. Anything above your grill has the potential to catch on fire.
- Set up your grill on a flat, non-flammable surface like concrete.
Charcoal Grills
Best Practices
Follow these best practices when using your charcoal grill.
- Only put lighter fluid on cold coals. Once you’re done with the lighter fluid, secure the lid and store away from your grill.
- Allow hot starters or any other grill accessories to cool away from flammable items. Handle carefully when hot.
- Never move ashes before they’ve cooled.
- Once ashes are cold, put in a non-flammable container away from your home.
Gas Grills
Before First Use
Deep clean your gas grill every year.
- Clean grates, burners and shields by soaking them in soapy water.
- To remove stubborn grease, turn your grill on high and cover for 15 minutes.
- Check gas levels and replace the gas tank if needed.
- Securely reconnect the gas tank to your gas line.
- Change out grease pan.
Gas Leaks
Complete frequent gas leak checks. You can do this with the following steps.
- Inspect gas line and tank for damage. Punctures, rust or dents may indicate a gas leak.
- Mix together equal parts of water and soap.
- Brush this solution onto your gas line and valve.
- Slowly turn on the gas and watch.
- If you see bubbles, you have a gas leak.
- Until the leak is fixed, disconnect the gas tank.
ServiceMaster of Germantown is your local fire and water damage restoration expert. We hope these tips help you enjoy a damage-free summer. If you do experience a BBQ fire, contact us at 901-854-6225. We’re available 24/7 for emergency restoration services. Our team also provides extreme cleaning, floor care and more. The sooner you call, the more damage we can prevent.
