Backyard grilling should be simple. Fire up the grill, toss on some food, and enjoy the evening. But it only takes one missed step to turn a relaxed cookout into a full-blown fire hazard. Grill safety isn’t complicated, but it does need to be taken seriously. A few smart habits can keep the flames where they belong—under the burgers, not across your deck.
Grill Safety Starts with Smart Setup
Where your grill sits matters. If it’s tucked against the house, under a low overhang, or pressed up to a wooden railing, you’re asking for trouble. Grill safety starts with space—at least ten feet away from your home, fencing, patio furniture, or anything flammable.
Set the grill on a level, solid surface that won’t shift or tilt. Avoid grass, mulch, or loose pavers. If you’re using a grill on a wood deck, put a heat-resistant mat underneath to catch grease and embers before they create a bigger problem.
A Clean Grill Is a Safer Grill
Grease buildup is one of the top causes of grill fires. It collects on the grates, in the firebox, and in the drip tray. If you’re not cleaning it regularly, it’s not a matter of if it will ignite—it’s when.
Scrape the grates after every use. Empty the grease trap before it overflows. Knock out any chunks of charred food and brush down the burners or charcoal bed. A clean grill is safer and cooks better-tasting food.
Gas Grills Need a Safety Check Before Every Cookout
Gas grills are quick and convenient, but they come with their own set of risks. Cracked hoses or loose fittings can leak propane into the air—and the second you hit the ignition, it can go from flame to fireball.
Always inspect the gas line. Run a soap-and-water mix over the connections and look for bubbles. If anything leaks, shut it down and replace the parts before trying again. And always light a gas grill with the lid open to prevent gas buildup.
Charcoal Doesn’t Mean Carefree
Just because there’s no gas line doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Charcoal grills come with their own hazards—especially when people get too loose with lighter fluid. If the coals don’t catch right away, don’t pour more fluid on them. Use a chimney starter instead and give it a minute to heat properly.
When you’re done, close the vents and let everything cool completely. Tossing out hot coals too soon is one of the most common causes of post-cookout deck fires.
Don’t Step Away from the Heat
Grill fires happen fast. If you walk inside for a minute, it can be too late by the time you get back. Stay close while the grill is on and keep the area clear; no loose towels, hanging clothes, or distractions.
Have a fire extinguisher or a box of baking soda nearby—never use water on a grease fire. It spreads the flames and makes things worse.
Grill Safety Keeps the Focus Where It Should Be
Every year, emergency calls spike because of careless grilling. It’s rarely a freak accident; it’s usually someone getting too comfortable or skipping steps. Practicing grill safety keeps your backyard gathering safe and fun for everyone.
Elite Home Inspections offers home inspections in Sumter, Clarendon, Lee, Darlington, Florence, and Hartsville, South Carolina. Contact us to schedule an inspection today.