How to Put Out Fire in Grill: Avoid Accidents and Save Your BBQ

A controlled fire is the heart of great grilling, but an uncontrolled one is its greatest hazard.  From sudden grease flare-ups to out-of-control charcoal beds, different fires require different solutions.

Our goal is twofold: to help you avoid dangerous accidents and ensure that your hard-earned feast doesn’t end up as a charred casualty.

How to Put Out Fire in Grill: Quick & Safe Emergency Tips

In this guide, you’ll learn how to put out fire in your grill with quick and safe emergency tips—so you can stop the flames, protect your equipment, and keep the cookout going without panic.

Common Causes Of Grill Fires

Grill fires can start quickly and cause serious damage. Knowing the common causes of grill fires helps prevent accidents. Most grill fires happen due to simple issues that are easy to fix. Understanding these causes keeps your cooking safe and enjoyable. Here are the main reasons grill fires occur.

Grease Buildup

Grease buildup is a top cause of grill fires. When you cook fatty foods, grease drips down inside the grill. Over time, this grease collects on the grill’s walls and trays. It can catch fire easily and spread fast.

Why grease buildup is dangerous:

• Grease is highly flammable.
• It can ignite unexpectedly.
• Fires from grease spread quickly inside the grill.

To reduce grease buildup, clean your grill often. Here is a simple cleaning guide:

1. Turn off the grill and let it cool.
2. Remove grill grates and scrape off food bits.
3. Use warm soapy water to clean the trays and walls.
4. Rinse and dry all parts thoroughly.

Regular cleaning stops grease fires before they start.

Flare-ups From Fat

Flare-ups happen when fat drips onto hot coals or burners. This creates sudden, high flames. Flare-ups can burn food and cause grill fires.

Common causes of flare-ups:

• Cooking fatty meats like burgers or ribs.
• Using too much oil or marinades with oil.
• Not trimming excess fat from meat.

How to control flare-ups:

Tip	How it Helps
Trim fat from meat	Less fat drips, fewer flare-ups
Cook on lower heat	Reduces chances of fat igniting
Keep a spray bottle of water nearby	Quickly control small flames

Always watch the grill closely when cooking fatty foods. Quick action stops flare-ups from becoming fires.

Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are a serious fire hazard for gas grills. A leak lets gas escape, which can ignite and cause a large fire or explosion.

Signs of a gas leak:

• Smell of gas near the grill.
• Hissing sound from gas connections.
• Flame goes out suddenly while grilling.

Steps to check for leaks:

1. Turn off the gas supply.
2. Mix soap and water in a spray bottle.
3. Spray the solution on gas connections and hoses.
4. Look for bubbles forming, which show leaks.
5. Fix leaks before using the grill.

Never ignore gas leaks. Always keep your grill in good condition and replace worn hoses or parts immediately.

Immediate Steps To Extinguish Grill Fire

Grill fires can start suddenly and spread fast. Knowing the immediate steps to put out a grill fire saves lives and prevents property damage. Acting quickly and calmly helps control the fire before it grows. This section explains three key actions to stop a grill fire safely and effectively.

Shut Off Gas Supply

The first and most important step is to turn off the gas supply. This stops fuel from feeding the flames and helps control the fire.

• Locate the gas valve:Usually found near the propane tank or gas line connected to the grill.
• Turn off the valve completely:Rotate the knob clockwise until it stops. This cuts off the gas flow.
• Do not try to move the grill:Moving it can spread the fire or cause gas leaks.

Turning off the gas supply is crucial because propane and natural gas are highly flammable. Leaving the gas on will make the fire worse and dangerous.

Step	Action	Reason
1	Locate gas valve	Find source of fuel
2	Turn valve off	Stop gas flow to flames
3	Do not move grill	Prevent fire spread

Always keep your grill’s gas shut-off valve easy to reach. This helps you react fast in emergencies.

Close Grill Lid

Next, close the grill lid to smother the fire. This cuts oxygen supply, which flames need to keep burning.

Closing the lid also:

• Reduces the fire’s size quickly
• Prevents sparks from flying out
• Protects nearby objects and people

Do not open the lid again until the fire is fully out. Opening it too soon may cause flames to flare up.

Here is a simple guide:

1. Turn off the gas supply.
2. Close the grill lid firmly.
3. Wait several minutes for fire to die down.
4. Check carefully before opening the lid.

Keeping calm and closing the lid can stop the fire in its tracks. This step works best on flare-ups and small grill fires.

Use Baking Soda Or Salt

For small grease fires, baking soda or salt can help put out flames safely. These household items smother the fire by cutting oxygen flow.

Follow these tips:

• Do not use water; it can spread grease fires.
• Throw a generous amount of baking soda or salt directly on flames.
• Use a spoon or cup to avoid burns.
• Keep some baking soda or salt near the grill for emergencies.

Baking soda works well because it releases carbon dioxide when heated, which helps suffocate the fire. Salt blocks oxygen and cools the flames.

Item	How It Helps	When to Use
Baking Soda	Releases CO2, smothers fire	Small grease or flare fires
Salt	Blocks oxygen, cools flames	Small grease or flare fires

Always avoid using flour or baking powder; they can catch fire and make things worse.

Tools And Materials To Keep Handy

Grill fires can start quickly and spread fast, making safety tools essential. Having the right tools and materials ready helps control small fires before they get dangerous. These items protect you and reduce damage. Preparing in advance means you stay calm and act fast if flames appear. Below are key safety tools every grill owner should keep nearby.

Fire Extinguisher Types

A fire extinguisher is the most important tool to fight grill fires. Not all extinguishers work the same on every fire. Knowing which type to use saves time and prevents accidents.

Grill fires usually involve:

• Grease or oil flames
• Gas or charcoal fuel flames

Most common extinguisher types for grills:

Type	Class	Best For	Notes
ABC Dry Chemical	A, B, C	Wood, paper, grease, electrical fires	Versatile and widely recommended
Class K	K	Cooking oils and grease fires	Specifically designed for kitchen fires
CO2 Extinguisher	B, C	Flammable liquids and electrical fires	Leaves no residue but less effective on grease

Tips for choosing an extinguisher:

• Pick an ABC extinguisher for general use near grills
• Consider a Class K extinguisher if you cook often with grease
• Check the pressure gauge monthly
• Place it within easy reach of the grill

Heat-resistant Gloves

Grilling means handling hot tools and surfaces. Heat-resistant gloves protect your hands from burns. They allow safe movement around flames and hot grates.

Good gloves should:

• Resist heat up to 500°F or more
• Be made from materials like silicone, Kevlar, or leather
• Offer a good grip to hold utensils safely
• Be long enough to cover wrists

Using gloves helps when:

1. Moving hot grill lids
2. Adjusting coals or charcoal baskets
3. Handling skewers, racks, and pans
4. Extinguishing flare-ups safely

Maintenance tips:Keep gloves clean and dry. Wash or wipe off grease after use. Replace if fabric wears thin or gets holes. Always check for damage before grilling.

Fire Blanket

A fire blanket is a simple but powerful safety tool. It smothers small fires by cutting off oxygen. Fire blankets are easy to use and safe for all ages.

Benefits of fire blankets near grills:

• Quickly covers flames on grills or clothes
• No chemicals or residue left behind
• Lightweight and easy to store
• Useful for grease or fabric fires

How to use a fire blanket:

1. Pull the tabs to release the blanket
2. Hold it in front like a shield
3. Carefully place over the fire, covering fully
4. Leave it until the fire is out and cool

Keep the blanket near the grill but away from heat. Check it regularly for tears or damage. Replace if the fabric weakens or after use. Fire blankets work best on small fires and as a backup to extinguishers.

Preventing Future Grill Fires

Preventing future grill fires is essential for safe outdoor cooking. Fires on grills can start quickly and cause serious damage or injury. Taking simple steps helps reduce fire risks. A clean grill, safe fuel handling, and correct grill placement protect you and your home. These habits keep grilling fun and worry-free.

Regular Cleaning Routine

Cleaning the grill regularly removes grease and food buildup. These residues can catch fire easily. A clean grill lowers the chance of flare-ups and uncontrolled flames.

• After each use:Brush the grill grates with a stiff wire brush to remove food particles.
• Weekly:Clean the drip pan and trays to avoid grease accumulation.
• Monthly:Deep clean the grill by removing grates and washing with warm soapy water.

Check these areas during cleaning:

Area	Cleaning Tip	Why It Matters
Grill Grates	Scrub with wire brush after each use	Removes food and grease to prevent flare-ups
Drip Pan	Empty and clean weekly	Prevents grease fires from pooled fat
Burners	Check for blockages and clean monthly	Ensures even flame and reduces flare risk

Do not ignore grease buildup. It is the leading cause of grill fires. Proper cleaning keeps the grill safe and working well.

Safe Fuel Storage

Store fuel such as propane tanks and charcoal safely to reduce fire risks. Incorrect storage can cause leaks or accidental ignition.

Follow these fuel storage tips:

• Keep propane tanks upright and in a cool, ventilated area outdoors.
• Do not store fuel near heat sources or open flames.
• Check propane tanks regularly for dents, rust, or leaks.
• Store charcoal in a dry place away from combustible materials.

Here is a simple guide for propane tank safety:

Do	Don’t
Store tanks outside in shade	Keep tanks in enclosed spaces like garages
Turn off valves when not in use	Leave valves open after grilling
Inspect hoses and connections before use	Use damaged or leaking tanks

Proper fuel storage lowers the chance of dangerous leaks and explosions. It protects your family and property.

Proper Grill Placement

Where you place your grill affects fire safety. Place the grill in a safe spot to avoid accidents and house fires.

Use these placement guidelines:

1. Keep the grill at least 10 feet away from buildings, fences, and trees.
2. Set the grill on a flat, stable surface to prevent tipping.
3. Avoid grilling under low-hanging branches or near flammable materials.
4. Do not place the grill on wooden decks unless a fireproof mat is under it.
5. Ensure good airflow around the grill to prevent heat buildup.

Consider this checklist before grilling:

• Is the grill away from walls and windows?
• Is the surface steady and non-flammable?
• Is there a fire extinguisher nearby?
• Are children and pets kept at a safe distance?

Proper grill placement reduces fire hazards and keeps everyone safe. Safe grilling starts with a smart setup.

When To Call Emergency Services

Grill fires can start quickly and spread fast. Knowing when to call emergency services saves lives and property. Acting too late can cause serious injury or damage. Recognizing signs of an uncontrollable fire is crucial. Understanding smoke dangers and keeping personal safety a priority helps you decide the right moment to get professional help.

Signs Of Uncontrollable Fire

Some grill fires grow beyond control fast. Watch for these clear signs that show you need emergency help:

• Flames spreading outside the grill and reaching nearby objects like furniture, plants, or the house walls.
• Fire grows bigger despite attempts to put it out with water, a fire extinguisher, or covering the grill.
• Intense heat that feels too strong to stay near.
• Fire crackling loudly or making popping sounds.
• Smoke thickening and darkening quickly, signaling more fuel burning.
• Gas grill leaks or hissing sounds indicating a gas buildup or explosion risk.

Use this table to check fire severity:

Fire Condition	Action Needed
Small flames inside grill only	Try to put out using grill lid, baking soda, or extinguisher
Flames outside grill or spreading	Call emergency services immediately
Gas leaks or hissing sounds	Turn off gas supply and call emergency services

Do not delay calling for help when the fire grows out of control. Early emergency response reduces damage and risk.

Smoke Hazards

Smoke from grill fires can harm your health fast. It contains dangerous chemicals and particles. Breathing smoke causes coughing, dizziness, or worse problems.

Signs smoke is hazardous:

• Thick, dark smoke that limits visibility.
• Strong, choking smell that irritates your eyes or throat.
• Difficulty breathing or feeling light-headed.

Smoke can spread quickly and affect people nearby. It moves with the wind and can enter homes through windows or doors. Avoid exposure by moving away and covering your nose and mouth.

Important safety tips:

1. Stay upwind of the smoke to avoid breathing it.
2. Use a damp cloth to cover your nose and mouth if you must be near smoke.
3. Do not enter buildings filled with smoke.
4. Call emergency services if smoke causes health problems.

Smoke inhalation can be deadly. Treat it seriously and act fast.

Personal Safety Priorities

Your safety is the top priority during a grill fire. Never risk injury to save property or food. Know these key safety steps:

• Stay calm and act quickly but carefully.
• Keep children and pets away from the fire and smoke.
• Do not try to fight large fires alone. Step back and call emergency services.
• Have an escape plan and clear exit routes.
• Wear protective gloves and avoid loose clothing near flames.

If the fire grows or smoke becomes overwhelming:

1. Leave the area immediately.
2. Call emergency services from a safe distance.
3. Warn neighbors if the fire risks spreading.
4. Do not return until firefighters declare it safe.

Remember:Your life matters more than any grill or food. Safety first.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Quickly Put Out A Grill Fire?

Close the grill lid to cut off oxygen. Turn off burners or gas supply. Use baking soda for small flames. Avoid water as it spreads grease fires.

What’s The Safest Way To Handle Grill Flare-ups?

Move food away from flames to reduce flare-ups. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby for minor flames. Never pour water directly on grease fires; use baking soda instead.

Can I Use A Fire Extinguisher On A Grill Fire?

Yes, use a Class B or multi-purpose fire extinguisher. Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames. Keep a safe distance and call emergency services if fire spreads.

Why Should I Avoid Water On Grease Grill Fires?

Water causes grease fires to spread quickly and violently. It can create dangerous steam and splatter hot grease. Use baking soda or a fire extinguisher designed for grease fires instead.

Conclusion

Grill fires can start quickly and spread fast. Act fast to control the flames safely. Keep a fire extinguisher or baking soda nearby. Never use water on a grease fire. Always close the grill lid to cut off oxygen. Stay calm and focus on putting out the fire.

After the fire stops, clean the grill to prevent future fires. Stay safe, and enjoy your grilling with care. Knowing how to put out a grill fire protects you and others.