July is peak month for grill fires
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (June 30, 2024) – The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is reminding Illinoisans to make sure they follow proper safety practices when using grills this holiday weekend and throughout the rest of the summer. July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), reports around 64% of U.S. households own at least one outdoor BBQ, grill, or smoker. Gas grills contribute to a higher number of fires than charcoal grills. On average, 10,200 home fires are started by a grill each year. Of those reported grilling fires, roughly 20% were caused by a grill that was not clean. More than 25% of grill structure fires started on an exterior balcony or open porch.
During the same period, an average of 22,155 patients per year went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills. Nearly half (10,342 or 47%) of the injuries were thermal burns, including both burns from fire and from contact with hot objects.
“Grilling hot dogs and hamburgers, or smoking your favorite meat is a popular way many celebrate the summer and the 4th of July. There are a lot of distractions when you have guests over, making it even more important to ensure you are following safe grilling habits,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. “Injuries such as burns can not only ruin your weekend, but they can also leave physical and mental scares that can last a lifetime.”
The Office of the State Fire Marshal advises everyone to be aware of these grilling safety tips:
- Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors
- The grill should be placed away from the home or deck railing, and out from under eaves of the home and overhanging tree branches
- Children and pets should remain at least three feet away from the grilling area
- Grills should be kept clean — grease or fat buildup should be removed from the grills and the trays below the grill
- A grill should never be left unattended
- The lid of a gas grill should be open before the grill is lit
- The gas tank and hoses on a propane grill should be checked for leaks each time before using the grill
- Anytime gas is smelled while grilling, the area should be cleared and the fire department should be called
- Charcoal grill coals should be allowed to cool before they are disposed, in a metal container
- Grillers should have a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, or garden hose nearby
Bonfires, pit fires, and campfires can also create fire safety dangers during the summer months. Campfires need to be built at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs, and anything that can burn. Make sure fires are allowed in the area that you are camping. Use of chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits needs to be at least 10 feet away from anything that can burn.
More information about grilling is available at the National Fire Protection Association’s website: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Grilling.
