Getting Ready to Grill? Read this First

Backyard grilling accidents occur all too often, and they may result in serious injuries or death. Research conducted by the National Fire Protection Association found that on average between 2014 and 2018, fire departments across the country responded to 10,600 grill-related fires. Barbecues offer a fun way for people to get together with family, friends, coworkers, and other groups to enjoy outdoor weather and food. However, charcoal, propane, and other types of grills may present a variety of risks.

Causes of Backyard Grilling Accidents

A range of factors may contribute to causing backyard grilling accidents. Some of the most common of these may include placing grills too close to structures, grease buildup due to inadequate or infrequent cleaning, propane line leaks or breaks, and the use of flammable liquids to light grill fires. Forgetting to turn off gas tanks may also result in backyard grilling accidents, as this may let the gas slowly leak out, so too may allowing pets or kids to get too close to the grill.

Common Home Grilling Accident Injuries

Due to home grilling accidents, people may suffer various injuries. The type and severity of injury people suffer may vary based on factors such as the type of accident. Combining heat and fire, backyard grills commonly cause burn injuries. Explosions involving propane tanks may cause shrapnel injuries, as the force of exploding propane tanks may launch debris from the tank and surrounding objects, turning them into projectiles. Propane tank explosions may also cause the loss of limbs.

Preventing Backyard Grill Accidents

Taking some precautions when grilling and maintaining barbecues may help people reduce the risk of backyard grill accidents, and the potentially serious injuries or deaths such accidents may cause. Some steps people may take for grill safety include the following:

• Place grills a safe distance from houses, deck railings, and other structures
• Check hoses and connectors before use for cracks or other disrepair
• Perform regular and thorough cleaning
• Avoid storing lighter fluid or other flammable liquids near grills
• Refrain from storing tanks in extremely hot areas, such as car trunks
• Do not leave grills unattended while in use

Using tools with long handles to let themselves stay a safe distance back from the heat of grills while cooking, as well as keeping kids and pets at least three feet away from grills while in use may also help prevent some backyard grilling accidents.