Grilling is a favorite pastime for many, offering delicious food and great memories. However, it’s not without its hazards, one of the most alarming being when a grill catches fire. This guide, “What to Do If Your Grill Catches Fire,” is dedicated to helping you understand why grill fires happen and how to effectively respond to them. Whether you’re dealing with a flare-up during a family cookout or a sudden grease fire, knowing the right actions to take can be a game-changer.
We’ll walk you through the essential steps to handle such situations safely, ensuring your grilling adventures remain both fun and hazard-free. Let’s dive into the crucial skills every griller should have in their toolkit to tackle the unexpected.
Understanding the Causes of Grill Fires
Why does a grill catch fire? It’s often more than just a mere mishap. The primary culprit is typically a buildup of grease inside the grill. When regular cleaning is neglected, grease accumulates on the burners, within the firebox, and across various parts of the grill. This grease can eventually break down and ignite, leading to a grease fire. Understanding this core reason is crucial in preventing future grill fires and ensuring a safe grilling experience.
What to do if Grill Catches Fire?
First of all, turn off the gas supply to the grill. The second thing is to close the grill lid, which will eliminate the oxygen supply. You can use baking soda or salt to extinguish the fire if you don’t have a fire extinguisher. If you become panicked, you must call 911 for rescue.
Gas grill fires are not as short-lived as other usual kitchen flare-ups. The most important thing is not to panic. You can only handle this situation with a present and calm mind. If you panic, you might make things worse for yourself. There are undoubtedly significant factors you must remember and follow as well.
1. Turning Off the Gas.
In a grill fire situation, if you are reachable to the grill, the first thing to do is turn off the burner controller. On the other hand, you can reach the gas tank and stop the gas supply right there at the very moment.
2. Don’t Use Water.
You might have heard of the unlikely combination of water and oil that never works. If you are using water on the grease, fire can get more power to spread. Water can apply the grease, and that can cause more fire around the oil.
3. Close the Grill Lid.
As a rule, you need to cover the fire with a lid to eliminate its source of oxygen. In the kitchen, this is typically done by using a pot or a container to cover it. Gas grills have vents and other openings that allow air inside, if you can close them go for it. Some high-budget gas grills like Weber 44010001 have a grease management system that controls the grill grease formation while grilling.
4. Use of Baking Soda or Salt
Baking soda and salt can be used to extinguish small to moderate grill grease fires. Baking soda releases carbon dioxide to smother small fires, while salt cuts off oxygen to the flames. Both require substantial amounts to be effective and are suited for smaller fire emergencies.
5. Use a Fire Extinguisher
In situations where a grill fire cannot be controlled by cutting off the gas supply and using baking soda, it is crucial to use a Class B fire extinguisher. These extinguishers are specifically designed for use on flammable liquids. Always ensure you have a Class B fire extinguisher within easy reach in these areas to address fire emergencies promptly and safely.
6. Call 911
If a grease fire on a grill escalates to the point where your efforts to extinguish it are unsuccessful, it’s crucial to call 911 immediately. In such scenarios, having professional help on the way is vital. Prompt action in calling emergency services can prevent the situation from worsening, ensuring your safety and minimizing potential damage.
Responding to Charcoal Grill Fires
In the event a charcoal grill catches fire, the approach differs from that of a gas grill due to the absence of a gas supply. Here are the steps to follow:
Close the Lid and Vents: Immediately close the grill lid and any air vents. This action reduces the oxygen supply to the fire, helping to smother the flames.
Avoid Water: Do not use water to extinguish a charcoal grill fire. Water can create steam and hot splatters, making the situation more dangerous.
Use Baking Soda or Salt: For small fires, baking soda or salt can be effective in smothering the flames. Spread it generously over the fire, but be cautious to avoid burns.
Fire Extinguisher: Always have a Class B fire extinguisher nearby, ideal for use on flammable liquids and grease fires. Employ it when the fire cannot be controlled by smothering. After using the extinguisher, the grill can still be used, but it’s important to clean it thoroughly and ensure it’s in proper working order before doing so.
Call for Emergency Help if Necessary: If the grill fire becomes uncontrollable, step away to a safe distance and call 911. Professional help is essential in such scenarios to ensure safety and prevent further damage.
Let Coals Cool Completely: After the fire is extinguished, let the coals and grill cool completely before handling. Dispose of the coals safely once they are cold.
How to Prevent Grill from Catching Fire
To prevent grill from catching fire, regular maintenance and cleaning are crucial. Here are key steps to reduce the risk:
- Clean the Grates Before Use: Preheat your grill for 10-15 minutes to burn off residue. Then, use a grill brush dipped in water to steam clean the grates. This helps in removing stuck food particles and grease, minimizing the chance your grill catches fire.
- Regularly Check the Drip Pan: Inspect the drip pan before each use to prevent grease build-up. Ensure it’s correctly installed and clean to deter pests and reduce fire risks. Also, check the system that channels grease into the pan for any blockages.
- Perform Thorough Cleaning Routinely: Deep clean your grill several times a year, or more frequently if used often. This involves removing removable parts like grates and flavor bars and cleaning them with a degreaser. For tough grease, a low-pressure power washer can be effective. Always turn off the gas supply before starting.
- Check for Gas Leaks: Regularly perform a leak test on your gas grill, especially after deep cleaning or if any gas line connections have been altered. Apply soapy water to the connections and turn on the gas. If bubbles form, there’s a leak that needs fixing immediately to prevent fires.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of your grill catching fire, ensuring a safe and enjoyable grilling experience.
A Survey on Grill-Related Fires
A comprehensive report published in 2020 sheds light on the prevalence of grill-related fires in the United States. Analyzing data from 2014 to 2018, reveals an alarming average of 10,600 grill fire incidents annually. These fires are categorized into two distinct groups: structured and unstructured.
Structured fires, typically occurring in buildings or enclosed spaces, account for an average of 4,900 cases each year. Unstructured fires, which include outdoor or unspecified locations, surpass structured fires with approximately 5,700 incidents annually.
The primary cause identified for this significant number of fires is attributed to improperly maintained grills or grill grates. Accumulated grease and residue on grills are major contributing factors, emphasizing the importance of regular and thorough cleaning of grilling equipment.
Precautionary Measures to Prevent Grill Fires
- Position your grill away from buildings, structures, and other flammable materials. This reduces the risk of a fire spreading.
- High wind conditions can exacerbate fire risks by spreading flames or embers. It’s safer to grill in calm weather.
- When grilling foods with higher fat content, keep the grill lid open. This allows excess grease to burn off more safely and reduces the buildup that can lead to fires.
- Always monitor your grill when it’s in use. Unattended grills pose a significant fire risk, especially if there’s a flare-up or grease overflow.
- If your grill catches fire, do not attempt to move it. Moving a lit or flaming grill can increase the risk of injury or spreading the fire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to put out a fire on a grill?
To safely extinguish a fire on a grill, first, turn off the gas supply. Then, close the lid to cut off the oxygen supply to the flames. In the absence of a fire extinguisher, use baking soda or salt to smother the fire. Avoid using water, as it can cause the fire to spread.
How can I prevent a fire on a grill?
To prevent a fire on a grill, take these precautions: Regularly clean the grill grates and interior to avoid grease buildup. Ensure the drip pan is clean. Keep the grill at a safe distance from structures and combustibles. Avoid grilling in high winds and keep the lid open when cooking foods with high fat content.
What is the prime reason for a grill fire?
The primary cause of gas grill fires is the ignition of built-up grease, often due to excessive heat with the grill cover closed. To mitigate this, keep the cover open to allow grease to burn off, and never move a grill that’s in use or on fire.
How to check the temperature of a grill?
There are number of ways to check the temperature of a grill
• Built-in Thermometer
• Infrared Thermometer
• Hand Test
• Grill Surface Thermometer
Why can’t I use water to put out a grill fire?
Using water on a grease fire is dangerous because it can cause the burning grease to splatter and spread the fire. Water, being denser than oil, sinks below the grease and rapidly turns to steam, potentially causing an explosive effect that disperses flaming grease particles. This reaction significantly increases the risk of injury and property damage.
Conclusion
“Staying Safe While Savoring the Sizzle”
In our guide “What to Do if Grill Catches Fire,” we’ve explored crucial steps for handling grill fires, emphasizing the importance of calm, prompt action. For gas grills, this means turning off the gas and using baking soda or a fire extinguisher when needed. For charcoal grills, smothering the flames by closing the lid and vents is key.
Regular cleaning and maintenance significantly lower the risk of your grill catching fire. However, in situations where the fire is uncontrollable, prioritize safety by calling 911. Remember, the right knowledge and preparation are essential for safe grilling. Keep these guidelines in mind, and you’ll be equipped to manage any unexpected flare-ups during your grilling sessions.