NEW JERSEY — As Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer grilling season, the National Fire Protection Association is reminding residents to take precautions as home grilling fires historically increase during the warmer months.
According to the NFPA, July is the peak month for home grilling fires in the United States, followed by June, May and August.
“Outdoor grilling is a popular way to cook during the warmer months, but it does present the risk of fire and burns,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “We want to help ensure that the grilling season remains a safe one for everybody.”
Between 2020 and 2024, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 12,141 home fires each year involving grills, hibachis or barbecues, according to NFPA data.
Those incidents included more than 6,100 structure fires and more than 6,000 outside or unclassified fires. The fires resulted in an average of 15 civilian deaths, 171 civilian injuries and $241 million in direct property damage annually.
Gas grills accounted for the majority of incidents, with 76% of home grilling fires involving gas-fueled grills, while 13% involved charcoal or other solid fuels.
NFPA officials said failure to properly clean grills remains one of the leading causes of grilling fires. About 20% of grilling fires were linked to grills that had not been cleaned, allowing grease and fat buildup to ignite.
The organization also noted that about one-quarter of home structure fires involving grills began on exterior balconies or open porches.
“Knowing when and where grilling fires tend to happen helps people better understand where risk exits and how to reduce their likelihood,” said Carli.
NFPA recommends that grill users keep grills away from homes, deck railings and overhanging branches, regularly check propane tanks for leaks, remove grease buildup and never leave grills unattended while cooking.
The organization also advises keeping children and pets at least three feet from grilling areas and ensuring charcoal coals are fully cooled before disposal.
Additional grilling safety information is available through the National Fire Protection Association website.
