Memorial Day is fast approaching, and as we remember those honored that day, it also marks the unofficial start to summer. As the weather warms up, Minnesotans start firing up the grill, lighting backyard fire pits, and enjoying long evenings outdoors. While outdoor cooking and gathering are some of the best parts of summer, they also come with increased fire risks. Haven Builders wants you to enjoy the season safely. That’s why we’ve put together some essential fire safety tips to help you prevent accidents and protect your home and loved ones.
Why Fire Safety Matters in Grill Season
As we begin firing up the grills, there comes a spike in residential fire incidents caused by outdoor cooking equipment, fire pits, and even improperly discarded smoking materials. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grills cause an average of 10,600 home fires annually. Many of these are entirely preventable with a few simple precautions.
Top Backyard Fire Safety Tips
🔥 Keep Grills and Fire Pits at a Safe Distance
Place grills, fire pits, and other open flames at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, and overhanging branches. Avoid grilling in enclosed areas like garages or under porches where flames and heat can accumulate quickly.
🔥 Clean Your Grill Regularly
Built-up grease and food residue are leading causes of grill fires. Make sure to clean your grill grates and trays before each use. A clean grill not only cooks better—it’s safer too.
🔥 Never Leave Flames Unattended
Whether it’s a gas grill, charcoal pit, or wood-burning fire, never leave it unattended. Keep a close eye on open flames, especially if children or pets are nearby.
🔥 Check Your Equipment
Inspect gas lines, propane tanks, and ignition switches for leaks or damage before lighting your grill. A quick check could prevent a dangerous situation.
🔥 Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Every outdoor cooking area should be equipped with a fire extinguisher, a bucket of sand, or a fire blanket. Be prepared to act fast if a fire does get out of control.
🔥 Properly Dispose of Ashes and Coals
After using charcoal or a fire pit, let the ashes cool completely and dispose of them in a metal container. Never dump hot coals or ashes in the grass, garden beds, or trash cans.
🔥 Educate Everyone in the Household
Make sure all family members know how to safely use outdoor fire equipment, and educate kids about the dangers of playing near grills and fire pits.
We’re Here To Help
Following these grilling safety tips will keep your family and home as safe as possible during the summer grill season. While we hope you never need our fire restoration services, rest assured that Haven Builders is here to help if the unexpected happens to get your home back to (or better than) how it was before. Our team specializes in removing smoke and soot, repairing fire-damaged structures, and eliminating odors to ensure a safe and healthy living environment. We work closely with your insurance company to assess the damage, coordinate repairs, and restore your home to its pre-loss condition.
If you’ve experienced the devastation of a fire in your home, Haven Builders is here to guide you through the process and help you recover with confidence. Contact us today for a free inspection so we can handle the restoration, so you can focus on moving forward.
