Grilling Safety 101
Whether you’re preparing burgers for a backyard hangout or hotdogs for the Fourth of July, warmer weather and grilling often go hand in hand. While cookouts are fun, it’s easy to forget that grilling comes with some risks. A few simple precautions can make all the difference between a mouthwatering meal and a smoke-filled setback.
Common grilling hazards
Grilling safety starts with knowing what to watch out for. Grease flare-ups, faulty propane tanks, and leaving the grill unattended are a few common hazards that can lead to serious damages. Starting with safety in mind is the best way to ensure a smooth and stress-free cookout.
Top grilling safety tips
Keep a safe distance
Your grill might be the star of your backyard, but it still needs some personal space. Keep it at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, overhanging branches, or anything else that could catch fire. Grills can put off serious heat and the occasional spark that could easily turn your dinner into a disaster. If fire damage results from careless placement or negligence, your insurance may not cover it. Giving your grill some breathing room is a simple way to stay safe and avoid costly consequences.
Never leave the grill unattended
Once a grill is fully heated up, it doesn’t come with a pause button—it needs your full attention. Fires can spark and spread quickly, especially with sudden gusts of wind. Staying nearby allows you to keep the flames where they belong, handle surprises, and act quickly if things get out of hand. Whether your grill is gas, charcoal, or electric, always keep a close eye on it until it’s fully turned off and safely cooled down.
Check for gas leaks
Before firing up the grill, take a minute to check for gas leaks. Leaks can lead to dangerous flare-ups or even full-blown fires, and they’re not always easy to spot unless you’re looking for them. A quick and easy way to check is by brushing soapy water on the hose and connections; if you see bubbles, you’ve probably got a leak. Make sure the leak is fixed before turning the grill on. If you’re unsure of how to fix it or smell gas, turn the tank off immediately and contact a professional for help.
Keep the grill clean
A clean grill isn’t all about looking good, it’s about safety. Grease and food buildup can cause unexpected flare-ups that put your meal and your safety at risk. Taking a few minutes after each use to scrape the grates and empty the grease trap helps keep flames under control. A clean and well-maintained grill is less likely to cause accidents.
Use the right tools
Using the right grilling tools not only help you look like a pro, but also help you stay safe while you cook. Long-handled tongs, heat-resistant gloves, and sturdy spatulas allow you to maintain a safe distance from the flames. Using makeshift tools or whatever you find in the kitchen might save time, but it could cost you in safety. Proper tools can help you stay in control, reduce the risk of accidents, and protect your arms from burns.
Be prepared for emergencies
The most experienced grill masters can still run into trouble, so it’s always smart to be prepared. Keep a fire extinguisher, baking soda (for grease fires), or a bucket of sand nearby, and know how to use them. Never use water on a grease fire as that would only make it worse. Make sure you know how to quickly shut off the grill and turn off the gas at the source. Being prepared for the unexpected can keep a small issue from turning into a big problem. Think of it as your grilling safety net: hopefully you won’t need it, but you’ll be glad it’s there if you do.
Is your insurance coverage ready for grilling season?
Even with all the right precautions, accidents can still happen—and when they do, your homeowners or renters insurance is there to help cover the damage. However, if damage is caused by neglect, like a badly placed grill or a leak you knew about and didn’t fix, your claim may not be covered. While the goal of grilling is tasty food and good times, it’s also wise to know what your insurance covers if things don’t go as planned. Review your policy or talk to your insurance agent to understand the details of your coverage.
Keep the flames on the grill and off your home
Don’t let unexpected flare-ups catch you off guard this grilling season. Reach out to your local Alfa® agent to ensure your home and outdoor spaces are protected.
All coverages are subject to deductibles and policy limits. This is not an insurance policy. It is intended only to provide a general description of Alfa Insurance® and/or its product lines and services. An actual policy contains the specific details of the deductibles, coverages, conditions and exclusions. Your Alfa® agent can explain the policy and benefits and answer any questions you may have before you buy.