New Jersey Division of Fire Safety Issues Grilling Safety Tips to Keep Your Family Safe During the Upcoming Barbecue Season

• Posted on: 05/24/2024

TRENTON, NJ – As Memorial Day weekend approaches, firing up the barbecue marks the traditional start of summer. The New Jersey Division of Fire Safety (DFS) is urging residents to practice essential grilling safety tips, ensuring that this holiday weekend and beyond are filled with enjoyment and safety.

“As we prepare to celebrate the upcoming holiday with loved ones, let's prioritize outdoor grilling safety by adhering to the advice of New Jersey's fire safety experts,” said DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suarez. “Following Division of Fire Safety tips is a good way to remain safe during holiday cookouts and throughout the summer months.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), data shows that between 2017 and 2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 11,421 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues, including 5,763 structure fires and 5,659 outside or unclassified fires. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian deaths, 176 reported civilian injuries, and $172 million in direct property damage. July was the leading month for grilling fires (16 percent), followed by June (14 percent), May (12 percent), and August (11 percent); grilling fires in November through February accounted for 4 percent or less each year.

“All grills should be thoroughly inspected each year before use,” said DFS Director and State Fire Marshal Richard Mikutsky. “It’s important to remove any grease or fat buildup and to check for gas leaks. Also, remember to keep the grill a good distance from the home to avoid fire.”re Protection Association (NFPA), data shows that between 2017 and 2021, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 11,421 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues, including 5,763 structure fires and 5,659 outside or unclassified fires. These fires caused an annual average of two civilian deaths, 176 reported civilian injuries, and $172 million in direct property damage. July was the leading month for grilling fires (16 percent), followed by June (14 percent), May (12 percent), and August (11 percent); grilling fires in November through February accounted for 4 percent or less each year.

The DFS has adopted NFPA’s safety tips and barbecue guidelines to ensure a safe grilling season, including the following:

The DFS has adopted NFFor propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks before use in the months ahead. Watch this video to learn how: Checking Your Gas Grill for Leaks (youtube.com).PA’s safety tips and barbecue guidelines to ensure a safe grilling season, including the following:

• For propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks before use in the months ahead. Watch this video to learn how: Checking Your Gas Grill for Leaks (youtube.com).
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Place the grill well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.
• Never leave your grill unattended when in use.

If using a charcoal grill:

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel. 
• If using a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.
• Never leave your grill unattended when in use.

NFPA’s complete guidance is available on its webpage Grilling Safety Facts & Resources | NFPA).

The Division of Fire Safety serves as the central fire service agency in the State. The Division is responsible for the development and enforcement of the State Uniform Fire Code, as well as for implementing community risk reduction and firefighter training programs.

For more information about the DFS, visit New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) | Fire Safety (nj.gov)

DCA offers a wide range of programs and services, including local government management and finance, affordable housing production, fire safety, building safety, community planning and development, disaster recovery and mitigation, historic preservation, and information privacy.

For more information about DCA, visit https://nj.gov/dca/ or follow the Department on social media: