As Americans prepare to kick off the summer grilling season this Memorial Day weekend, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is urging caution and reminding everyone to prioritize grill safety. With outdoor cooking becoming a popular way to celebrate the holiday and enjoy the warmer weather, the NFPA is offering essential tips to prevent fires and injuries.

“Cookouts and outdoor grilling can be a great way to spend time with friends and family, but they do present potential risks,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “Over Memorial Day weekend and throughout the summer, we want everyone to be aware of where and when grilling fires tend to happen, along with steps they can take to help prevent them.” NFPA data reveals that between 2019 and 2023, gas grills were involved in an average of 9,287 home fires annually, with approximately 20% of these fires linked to uncleaned grills. Furthermore, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported an average of 21,682 emergency room visits each year from 2020 to 2024 due to grill-related injuries. To help ensure a fire-safe grilling season, the NFPA recommends the following:

• For propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks. (Watch NFPA’s video on how to check for leaks.)
• Keep your grill clean. Make sure to remove all grease and fat buildup from the grills and the trays below.
• Place the grill far from your home, deck railings, eaves, or overhanging branches.
• Before lighting your gas-powered grill, always make sure the lid is open.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.
• If you use starter fluid with charcoal grilling, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire once it’s been lit. When you finish grilling, let the coals cool completely before disposing them in a metal container.
• Never leave your grill unattended when in use.

For additional grilling safety information, check out the NFPA podcast episode, a blog post on fire code grill requirements, or a video on some lesser-known grilling safety tips.