Grill Safely This Summer: Tips to Prevent Fires

Published on July 01, 2025

Dunedin Insights Grill Safety.png

By Eric Rodriguez
Dunedin Fire Rescue

We are lucky that grilling season is year-round in Florida.  But did you know more than 9,000 home fires this year will be caused by a gas/propane or charcoal grill and on average, over 22,000 people are injured and/or burned with grills being the mechanism of Injury.   

The Dunedin Fire Department would like everyone in our community to stay safe while grilling. Here are some tips and guidelines so you can grill with confidence. For additional information please visit the following websites: 

https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/grilling 
https://staysafe.org/safety/outdoor/grilling/

Safety Tips 

  • Check propane/gas grill tank, hoses, and hardware for leaks, breaks, or serviceability.  Leaks and breaks are responsible for most propane/gas grill fires.
  • Always start with a clean grill.  Remove grease and fat buildup from grill tops and drip pans.
  • Grill in well-ventilated areas.  Both gas and charcoal emit carbon monoxide, and this is harmful and potentially fatal in tight poorly ventilated areas.
  • Use your grill AWAY from the house.  DO NOT (EVER!!) use on balconies, covered decks, in carports, under eaves, deck railings, or under overhanging branches.  Over 25% of structure fires with grill involvement start this way.
  • Place your grill where you will be able to keep pets and children at least three feet away while in use.
  • Ensure propane/gas grill lid is in the open position before lighting.
  • NEVER use any flammable liquid (gasoline, kerosine, etc.) other than an approved starter or lighter fluid to light charcoal. Once lit, NEVER add lighter fluid to charcoal. You must resist the temptation to declare “Now that’s a fire!!” typically without eyebrows.  Adding to the fire looks nice but is not safe.
  • NEVER move or reposition a lit grill.
  • When finished cooking with charcoal, soak the coals with water and let the coals cool COMPLETELY before disposing of them in a metal container. NEVER dispose of coals in plastic containers. NEVER place used coals in piles on the ground.
  • NEVER leave your grill unattended.
  • Use oven mitts, a heavy apron, and long-handled grilling tools to avoid injury.
  • Have a fire extinguisher at the ready while grilling.

 

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