All The Ways How The State Of Illinois Says You’re Unsafe With Your Grill

Memorial Day weekend is the start of summer and the unofficial start of grilling season.  Millions of backyards will be lit up with the wonderful smells of burgers, brats, and BBQ.

But the state of Illinois wants to remind you that you are probably doing a lot wrong when you are using your grill.

Around 64% of households own An Outdoor Grill

Some grill enthusiasts will tell you that if you are using a gas grill, you aren't really grilling.  But, the NFPA reports 61% of households own a gas grill.

On average, 10,200 home fires are started by a grill each year, and an average of 22,155 patients per year go to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills.

Nearly half (47%) of the injuries were thermal burns, including both burns from fire and contact with hot objects.

Stats are not available on how many of those burns and accidents occurred while the grill user was consuming alcohol, but we can all assume it's a pretty high percentage.

Here Is What You're Doing Wrong With Your Grill

Before getting into the grill rules, did you know that legally, chimneys, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits need to be at least 10 feet away from your home or anything that can burn?

That makes sense.  But also, whoops.

OK, now about that outdoor grill of yours.  Some of these are obvious, and I think most of us follow the rules.

• Propane and charcoal grills should be used only outdoors.
• Always make sure gas grill lids are open before lighting it.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.

Yep, these rules make sense and are followed by this griller.  But...

The list continues...

• The grill should be placed away from the home or deck railing, and out from under the eaves of your home and overhanging tree branches.  

Yeah, but what if you have a big tree above your patio?  Where am I supposed to roll this thing?  Those flames aren't going to shoot up 20 ft.

• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in the trays below the grill.

But...that's what gives it the flavor.  And cleaning it is...yuck.

• Never leave your grill unattended

But...I need to grab another beer.

• Check the gas tank on your propane grills and hoses for leaks each time before using

Each time?  That seems excessive.

• If you smell gas while grilling, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department

Ok, if you smell gas, stop grilling.  But calling the fire department seems like a bit of an overreaction.  You are just grilling some burgers and dogs.

• Always have a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, or garden hose nearby, or know where you can access one quickly

Uh...does a beer count?  That's a form of liquid that can put out the fire.  Nah, don't waste the beer.  Let it burn.

Have a wonderful and safe Memorial Day weekend.