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Grilling

Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces, such as tents, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.   Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.   Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.   See all safety tips   AUDIO Ted Lemoff, NFPA Principal Gases Engineer, talks about grilling safety:   How a propane gas grill works   How to handle propane gas safely   Safety concerns of charcoal grills   Safety tips when using the grill   Why newer gas grills are safer

Facts & figures

• In 2003-2006, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,900 home fires involving grills, hibachis or barbecues per year, including an average of 2,900 structure fires and 5,000 outside fires. These 7,900 fires caused annual average of 10 civilian deaths (to the nearest ten), 120 reported injuries and $80 million in direct property damage.
• Although gas grills are used roughly 1.5 times as often as charcoal grills, they were involved in five times as many fires.  Gas grills were involved in 6,400 home fires, including 2,100 structure fires and 4,300 outdoor fires.
• One-third (33%) of the home structure fires involving grills started on an exterior balcony or unenclosed porch, 18% started on a courtyard, terrace or patio, and 11% started on an exterior wall surface.

• Flammable or combustible gas or liquid was the item first ignited in half of home outdoor grill fires. In 51% of the home outdoor fires in which grills were involved, 56% of the outside gas grills, and 29% of the non-confined gas grill structure fires, the fire started when a flammable or combustible gas or liquid caught fire. 

Source: NFPA's "Home Structure and Outdoor Fires Involving Grills, " by Marty Ahrens, May 2009.

Also see:  Fact sheet on home fires involving grills (PDF, 41 KB)

NFPA does not test, label or approve any products.
Updated:  5/09