During 2014 to 2018, the US fire departments responded to an estimated average of 10,600 home structure and outdoor fires involving grills each year. These fires caused an average of 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries, and $149 million in direct property damage annually.
During 2007-2011, the US fire departments responded to an estimated average of 8,800 home1 fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues per year. These fires caused an average of of 10 civilian deaths, 140 reported civilian injuries, $96 million in direct property damage.
While nearly half of the people who grill do it year-round, July is the peak month for grill fires followed by May, June and August. Close to half of all injuries involving grills are due to thermal burns. In many grill fires, the grill had not been cleaned. To prevent fires, keep the grill clean. Leaks or breaks were also a factor in reported grill fires. In some cases, Ignition of something that could catch fire was too close to the grill or home structure fires were a result of the grill being too close to the house. Position the grill away from the home and from other things that can burn. It’s also good advice to have a fire-extinguished within reaching distance at all time. Cooking requires attention, and barbecuing is no exception.
Bon appetit, but be sure to do it safely.
