Celebrate Safely This Fourth of July: Grilling Safety Tips

As families and friends gather to celebrate Independence Day, grilling becomes a favorite tradition. While outdoor cooking is a great way to enjoy the holiday, it also presents a significant fire risk if proper safety precautions are not followed.

The Bourbonnais Fire Protection District encourages everyone to keep safety in mind before lighting the grill. A few simple precautions can help prevent fires, injuries, and property damage.

Grilling Safety Tips

• Grill Outdoors Only. Never use a grill inside your home, garage, enclosed porch, or under an overhang. Grills produce carbon monoxide
and can quickly create dangerous fire conditions.
• Keep Your Grill Away from Structures. Place grills at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, fences, siding, and overhanging
tree branches.
• Create a Kid and Pet Safety Zone. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill while it is in use.

• Never Leave a Grill Unattended. Stay with your grill whenever it is lit. Many grilling fires occur because the grill was left unattended.

• Clean Your Grill Regularly. Remove grease and fat buildup from the grill and grease tray before cooking. Excess grease is one of the
leading causes of grill fires.

• Check Propane Connections. Before using a gas grill, inspect the hose for cracks or damage. Test for leaks by applying a soap-and-water
solution to the hose and connections. If bubbles appear, turn off the gas and repair the leak before using the grill.

• Open the Lid Before Lighting. Always open the grill lid before igniting a gas grill to prevent gas from accumulating inside the grill.

• Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby. Have a fire extinguisher readily available and know how to use it. Baking soda can help extinguish a
small grease fire, but never use water on a grease fire.

• Dispose of Charcoal Safely. Allow charcoal ashes to cool completely—at least 48 hours—before placing them in a metal container with a
tight-fitting lid. Store the container away from your home and other combustible materials.

• Dress for Safety. Avoid loose-fitting clothing that could accidentally come into contact with the flames.

Before You Celebrate

Take a few minutes before your cookout to inspect your grill and ensure it is clean, in good working condition, and positioned in a safe location. These simple steps can help ensure your Fourth of July celebration is memorable for all the right reasons.

If a grill fire cannot be safely extinguished, move everyone to a safe location immediately and call 911.

The Bourbonnais Fire Protection District wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July. Celebrate responsibly, practice grilling safety, and help keep your family, friends, and neighbors safe throughout the holiday weekend.