LANSING, Mich. — According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), seven out of every 10 adults in the U.S. have a grill or smoker.
This simply means Americans do a good deal of barbecue cooking.
It also means an increased risk of home fires.
NFPA also reports that between 2013-2017, fire departments in the United States went to an annual average of 10,200 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues per year.
This included 4,500 structure fires and 5,700 outside or unclassified fires.
The fires caused an annual average of 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries, and $123 million in direct property damage.
The leading cause of those fires, improper cleaning the racks and trays.
Other common causes of fires when barbecuing include leaks or breaks in a grill and having something flammable too close to the barbecue.
Safety experts recommend placing grills away from your home, deck railing, or any overhanging branches.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Apple and Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
