Prairie State Wire

Springfield, Ill.—The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is urging residents to adhere to proper safety practices when using grills this holiday weekend and throughout the summer. July is the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that 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. From 2017-2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 11,421 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues per year. This includes an average of 5,763 structure fires and 5,659 outside or unclassified fires. Approximately one-fifth of these grilling fires were caused by unclean grills. More than one-quarter of grill structure fires started on an exterior balcony or open porch; eight percent began when an outside wall caught fire; four percent began with some type of structural member or framing.

During the same period, an average of 22,155 patients per year visited emergency rooms due to injuries involving grills. Nearly half (10,342 or 47%) of these injuries were thermal burns from both fire and 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," said Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. "There are a lot of distractions when you have guests over making it even more important to ensure you are following safe grilling habits." He added that injuries such as burns can not only ruin a weekend but also leave lasting physical and mental scars.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal advises taking several steps to ensure safe grilling:

- Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors.

- Place the grill away from the home or deck railing and out from under eaves and overhanging tree branches.

- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.

- Clean your grill by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and trays below.

- Never leave your grill unattended.

- Always make sure gas grill lids are open before lighting.

- Check propane gas tanks and hoses for leaks each time before use.

- If you smell gas while grilling, immediately move away from the grill and call the fire department.

- Ensure charcoal grill coals are cool before disposing in a metal container.

- Always have a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, or garden hose nearby.

Bonfires, pit fires, and campfires also pose fire safety risks during summer months. Campfires should be built at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs, and anything flammable. Confirm that fires are allowed in your camping area. Chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits should be at least ten feet away from homes or anything flammable.

For more information about grilling safety visit: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Grilling.