There’s nothing like the smell of food sizzling on the grill, laughter in the backyard, and the warmth of a sunny day. But as fun and tasty as grilling can be, it also comes with real risks if you’re not careful. Thousands of grill-related fires and injuries happen yearly, many of which are completely avoidable.
To help keep your next cookout safe and stress-free, here are some of the most common grilling mistakes people make and how to avoid them.
Leaving the Grill Unattended
It’s easy to get distracted—friends stop by, the game’s on inside, or you just need to grab something from the kitchen. But leaving a hot grill unattended, even for a minute, is one of the biggest safety risks. Fires can start fast, and flare-ups can go from minor to dangerous in seconds. Always have someone nearby keeping an eye on the grill while it’s in use.
Overloading the Grill with Fatty Meats
Burgers, ribs, and sausages are grilling favorites, but they also tend to drip fat. When too much grease builds up and drips onto the flames, you can get serious flare-ups. These sudden bursts of fire can char your food, singe your hands, or worse, cause a fire to spread. Avoid crowding the grill, trim excess fat when possible, and keep a spray bottle of water nearby for minor flare-ups.
Using Lighter Fluid Incorrectly
For charcoal grills, lighter fluid and other fire starters should be used with extreme care—and never added to an already lit flame. That might sound obvious, but it’s a mistake that still happens all too often. Always follow the directions, use only what you need, and give it time to soak into the charcoal before lighting. Better yet, consider using a chimney starter for charcoal grilling. It’s safer, faster, and doesn’t leave chemical tastes behind.
Not Cleaning the Grill Regularly
A dirty grill isn’t just unsanitary—it’s a fire hazard. Grease and food debris can ignite without warning. After each use, scrape down the grates and clean the drip pan or tray. Doing a deep clean every few weeks during peak grilling season can go a long way in preventing flare-ups and maintaining your grill’s performance.
Grilling Too Close to Flammable Surfaces
Setting up your grill right on the deck or near the siding for convenience can be tempting, but this is a recipe for disaster. Grills, fences, overhangs, and trees should be placed at least 10 feet from your home. That includes both gas and charcoal models. Always grill in a well-ventilated outdoor area.
Grill Smart, Grill Safe
Grilling should be about good food and good times, not fire scares or ER visits. By being aware of these common mistakes and taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your cookout delicious and safe. At Conklin Oil & Propane, we want you to have a safe grilling experience. We are here to provide you with all your needs, including propane for your grill. Contact us today for more information!
