Barbecue Safety Tips

As barbecue season gets underway, it's important for homeowners to take proper precautions to ensure the safety of their families and homes. Grills - whether propane, charcoal, or electric - can pose serious fire and health hazards if not used properly. Vivid Home Inspections recommends the following guidelines for safe grilling:

Propane Grills

Propane grills are a common cause of residential fires. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 500 grill-related fires occur each year due to misuse or equipment malfunction. To reduce risk:

  • Store propane tanks outdoors, never inside a home or car trunk, and always away from the grill or other heat sources.

  • Turn off the gas completely after grilling or when changing the tank. Even a minor leak can lead to an explosion.

  • Inspect propane tanks for damage before refilling. Always purchase propane from reputable suppliers.

  • Do not use propane grills on balconies, terraces, or rooftops - this is both dangerous and often illegal.

  • Limit propane tanks to no more than two 20-pound tanks on the property of a one- or two-family home.

  • Check for leaks by spraying soapy water on the connections and watching for bubbles. If bubbles form, re-tighten and check again. Replace any leaking parts before use.

  • Ensure all connections are secure before turning on the gas, especially after long periods of disuse.

  • Always ignite with the lid open. Lighting a grill with the lid closed can lead to gas buildup and an explosion.

  • Turn off the gas at the tank first, then shut off the controls to clear residual gas from the line.

Charcoal Grills

Charcoal grills come with their own risks, particularly carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The CPSC estimates that around 20 people die each year from CO inhalation due to charcoal grilling. Fire risks are also significant. Follow these precautions:

  • Never use a charcoal grill indoors, regardless of ventilation. CO is invisible and odorless.

  • Use only charcoal starter fluid - never gasoline or other flammable liquids.

  • Never add fluid to open flames. Fire can travel back to the container in your hand.

  • Let the starter fluid soak in for at least a minute before lighting to allow vapors to dissipate.

  • On balconies or terraces, maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from any structure and keep a water source nearby (a hose or at least 4 gallons of water).

  • Keep lighter fluid away from your body and stand back when igniting.

  • Dispose of ashes in a metal container with a tight lid. Add water and wait until they’re completely cool before disposal.

  • Fill the grill with no more than 2 inches of charcoal.

Electric Grills

Electric grills are typically safer than gas or charcoal options, but they still require care:

  • Do not use lighter fluid or flammable materials.

  • Use an appropriate extension cord rated for the grill’s amperage. Keep cords out of walkways and unplug when not in use.

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

General Grill Safety

Regardless of the type of grill, Vivid Home Inspections advises homeowners to follow these essential safety tips:

  • Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Grills remain hot long after use.

  • Store lighters and matches out of children's reach.

  • Never leave the grill unattended. Most accidents happen when no one is watching.

  • Have a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby.

  • Ensure the grill is fully cooled before storing or moving it.

  • Grill only on flat, fireproof surfaces, well away from trees, sheds, and overhangs.

  • Clean grease and debris regularly, and inspect for rust or wear.

  • Avoid loose clothing that could catch fire.

  • Use long-handled tools and heat-resistant gloves.

  • Keep alcoholic beverages away from the grill - they’re flammable.

In Summary

​Grills can be a fun part of outdoor living, but they must be used with caution. Vivid Home Inspections urges all homeowners to follow these safety practices to help prevent injuries, fires, and property damage.

Is your home overdue for a safety check-up?

If you’re like most homeowners, your last home inspection was right before purchasing the house. Busy schedules can make it tough to prioritize ongoing care and maintenance for your home, but your family’s safety and the value of your home both depend on it.

Unless you’ve just purchased your home, it probably doesn’t look the way it did during your last inspection. Repairs, renovations, and system replacements over time can change the conditions and maintenance needs of your home. Many qualified and experienced home inspectors offer home maintenance inspections for ongoing peace of mind.
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To ensure your family’s safety and the longevity of your home, schedule a home maintenance inspection today.