Outdoor cooking is part of many gatherings with family and friends. But, grills, charcoal, or propane, can be a fire hazard if not used correctly.
- Monitor weather conditions and avoid grilling with wood or charcoal on hot, dry, and windy days.
- Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors away from structures.
- Place your grill in an open space, away from tall grass, shrubs, woodpiles, or other flammable materials. Also avoid placing your grill underneath a tree or on a wooden patio deck.
- Never leave your grill unattended. Wind gusts may blow embers into dry vegetation and ignite a wildfire.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
- Ensure your grill is kept clean of excess grease to prevent flare-ups.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- After you finish grilling, allow coal to cool completely before disposing.
- Never travel with a lit or smoldering pit in the back of a truck or trailer. Embers or coals can fall out while driving, land in roadside vegetation and ignite it.