Grill Safely This SummerFire Risks & Home Insurance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

There’s nothing quite like a summer cookout! But before you fire up the grill, it’s important to think about safety. Grill fires cause thousands of home structure fires every year, resulting in millions of dollars in property damage.

Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a weekend burger-flipper, here’s what you need to know to stay safe — and how your homeowners insurance comes into play if something goes wrong.

Grill Fires by the Numbers

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

• July is the peak month for grill fires.

• Gas grills cause the majority of reported home fires.

• Nearly 10,000 home fires are started by grills each year.
  

Most of these incidents are preventable with proper safety measures.

Top Grill Safety Tips

To help reduce risk while enjoying your summer BBQs, follow these best practices:

• Grill outside only: Never use a grill indoors, in garages, under overhangs, or in enclosed spaces.

• Keep your distance: Place your grill at least 10 feet from your home, deck railings, and low-hanging branches.

• Clean your grill: Grease buildup is a major cause of flare-ups. Clean grates and drip trays regularly.

• Stay attentive: Never leave a grill unattended while it's in use.

• Check for leaks: Inspect propane hoses for cracks or leaks before each use.

• Have a fire extinguisher ready: Make sure you have a working extinguisher nearby—and know how to use it.
  

What to Do If There’s a Grill Fire

Even when you're careful, accidents can still happen. If a grill fire starts, follow these steps to protect yourself and your home:

• Turn off the fuel source: If it’s safe, shut off the burners and close the propane tank valve immediately.

• Close the lid: This can help smother the flames by cutting off oxygen.

• Use the right extinguisher: Never use water on a grease fire. Use a Class B or Class K fire extinguisher, or baking soda for small flare-ups.

• Don’t try to move the grill: Moving it can spread the flames or cause injury.

• Call 911 if needed: If the fire spreads or becomes unmanageable, evacuate the area and call emergency services.

• Document and report: Once it's safe, take photos of any damage and contact your insurance provider to begin the claims process.
  

How Grill Fires Can Impact Your Home Insurance

If a grill fire causes damage to your property, your homeowners insurance may help cover:

✅ Structural damage to your home or attached structures ✅ Damage to personal property (like patio furniture or outdoor appliances) ✅ Medical expenses or liability if someone is injured

However, coverage can depend on the details of the incident. For example, if negligence is found—like grilling too close to your house—your claim may be denied or limited.

Is Your Policy Grill-Fire Ready? Here's What to Check

Before your next cookout, make sure your homeowners policy includes:

• Dwelling coverage to protect the structure of your home

• Personal property coverage for outdoor itemsPersonal liability protection in case of injury or damage claims
  

At Cushman Insurance, we’re happy to walk you through your coverage and help you understand what’s included — and what might be missing.

Summer grilling should be fun, not stressful. With the right safety steps and the right insurance policy, you can focus on enjoying your backyard BBQs without the worry.

Contact Cushman Insurance today to review your homeowners policy and make sure you’re covered for the season ahead.