From spring cookouts to fall tailgates, outdoor cooking brings people together. Whether you’re flipping burgers, firing pizzas, or slow-smoking ribs, it’s important to keep backyard grilling safety on the front burner to protect what matters most to you. These tips will help you turn up the flavour while keeping the risks on low.
Here’s how to reduce the risk – so nothing goes up in smoke.
1. Gas and Propane Grills
Gas and propane grills bring the heat in a hurry – but you’ll want to avoid any grill-fuelled disasters. These BBQ fire safety tips can help:
- Inspect your propane tank regularly. Replace tanks that show signs of damage, rust or wear, or that are past their expiry.
- Check for gas leaks. Is that gas I smell? Apply a soapy water to exterior of hoses and connections. Seeing bubbles? You’ve got a leak that needs your attention ASAP.
- Store propane tanks outdoors, and upright - never indoors, in garages, or near heat sources.
- Keep your distance from other flammable objects.
- Never leave the grill unattended. Flare-ups and unexpected issues can happen in an instant.
2. Charcoal Grills and Smokers
Charcoal grills and smokers provide rich, smoky flavors but require extra attention to fire safety:
- Light it right. Only use approved lighter fluid.
- Dispose of ashes safely. Let coals and ashes cool for 24–48 hours, then move them to a metal container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy. An extinguisher is ideal for grease fires, which can be common with grills and smokers.
- Grill outside, and in open, well-ventilated spaces. Charcoal produces carbon monoxide), a colourless, odorless gas that can be deadly.
3. Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens
Rustic charm and cheesy goodness? Yes! Getting smoked out? No thanks!
- Use seasoned hardwood only. Softwoods like pine or cedar create excessive smoke and can cause dangerous flare-ups.
- Keep your eyes on the pies. Watch embers and flames closely, especially in windy conditions.
- Ensure proper ventilation. Your pizza oven should be in an open area to prevent smoke buildup and allow good ventilation.
4. General Outdoor Cooking Safety
No matter which cooking method you choose, these tips are the meat and potatoes of outdoor cooking safety:
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Establish a 3-foot “no-play zone” around grills, ovens, smokers and other hot surfaces and equipment.
- Wear the proper clothing. Avoid loose sleeves or dangling accessories that could catch fire.
- Clean your equipment regularly. Grease is the #1 culprit for flare-ups, so scrub grates and drip trays after each use to improve your outdoor cooking fire prevention.
In Case of an Emergency
- Grease fire? Smother it with a fire extinguisher or baking soda—never water. Grease fires double in size roughly every 30 seconds.
- Burns? Run cool (not cold) water over minor burns and seek medical attention for serious injuries.
- Property damage? Call emergency services first, followed by your insurance agent or broker to discuss next steps.
Need More Information?
Outdoor cooking should be well-done, not overdone. A little safety prep goes a long way in protecting your family and your home.
For additional fire and grilling safety tips, check out:
- Ontario Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Guidelines: https://www.ontario.ca/page/fire-prevention-and-protection
- The Insurance Information Institute: https://www.iii.org/article/grilling-safety-and-insurance
Talk to your Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Agent or Broker today about your insurance coverage, or request a free, no obligation quote on insurance.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional insurance advice. The coverage, terms, and conditions of each insurance policy are unique and subject to individual circumstances. The information provided does not guarantee the availability or suitability of any insurance policy for your specific needs. You should not rely on the information in the blog as an alternative to professional advice from your Insurance Broker or Insurance Company. If you have any specific questions about any insurance matter, please consult a Licensed Insurance Agent or Insurance Broker for personalized advice and guidance.