With the festivities of the Fourth now over, the summer outdoor cooking and grilling season is in full swing. However, as more folks turn to their outdoor cooking grills, the risk of outdoor-cooking-caused fires dramatically rises.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) data between 2017 and 2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 11,421 home fires involving outdoor cooking grills, hibachis, or barbecues, including 5,763 structure fires and 5,659 outside or unclassified fires. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian deaths, 176 reported civilian injuries, and $172 million in direct property damage. July was the leading month for grilling fires (16 percent), followed by June (14 percent), May (12 percent) and August (11 percent); grilling fires in November through February accounted for 4 percent or less each year.

Regardless of the type of grill you own, here are 11 outdoor cooking grill fire prevention safety tips from Security Specialists that will keep you and your home safe this outdoor cooking season:

1. Keep your grill away from your home and never use it inside your house.
2. Make sure you have baking soda on hand to control a grease fire (never use water to extinguish grease fires!)
3. It’s a good idea to have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby to put out other fires.
4. Before cooking, check all fittings, tubes, and connections to ensure they’re in good condition and connected tightly.
5. Always ensure your barbecue has a clearance of at least 15 feet from overhanging tree branches, buildings and vehicles.
6.  Never start your grill with the lid closed. Always leave the lid open when igniting the grill.
7. If your gas barbecue doesn’t light immediately or goes out, turn off the valve and burners, and leave the lid open for five minutes before trying again.
8. If you’re cooking with charcoal, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never use gasoline or lighter fluid on coals.
9. Always set your grill on a flat surface and make sure the grill can’t be tipped over.
10. Never leave a lit grill unattended and don’t allow kids or pets to play near the grill.
11. Make sure the fire is out completely when done cooking.

We at Security Specialists Want You and Your Family to Stay Safe and Secure in Your Home!