In 2014-2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 19,700 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an average of 10,200 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues occur each year in the United States. Here are some more shocking statistics about residential grease fires from BBQ grills:

In 2014-2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 19,700 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues, causing an average of 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries, and $133 million in direct property damage per year.

In addition:

1. Grease or fat was the leading factor contributing to ignition in one-third (34%) of home outdoor grill fires.
2. The peak month for grill fires is July, followed by May, June, and August.
3. Gas grills were involved in more home fires than charcoal grills.
4. Failure to clean the grill was the leading factor contributing to grill fires.
5. Twenty percent of grill-related burns are diagnosed as thermal burns (burns caused by heat).
6. Children under five accounted for approximately one-quarter (26%) of the burns caused by contact with the grill or hot surfaces.
7. An estimated 5,700 grill fires originated on an exterior balcony or open porch, resulting in an average of 10 civilian deaths, 100 civilian injuries, and $37 million in direct property damage per year.

It's important to follow proper safety precautions when using a grill to prevent these types of accidents and keep your home and family safe.

Grease fires can be especially dangerous because they can spread rapidly, and the high heat of the flames can cause serious damage to property and injuries to people. Grease buildup in the grill can ignite and quickly spread to other areas of the grill, such as the propane tank, causing an explosion.

A grease fire can also cause burns and injuries to anyone nearby, and in some cases, it can even lead to fatalities.

When grease builds up in the grill, it can also create an unpleasant odor and affect the taste of your food. It can also attract insects and rodents, which can further contaminate the grill and create health hazards.

Regular cleaning of your grill is essential to prevent grease buildup and reduce the risk of a fire.

You should clean your grill after each use, removing any food particles or grease that have accumulated on the grates or in the bottom of the grill. You can use a grill brush or scraper to remove any stuck-on debris, and then wipe down the grates and interior surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge.

In addition to regular cleaning, it's also important to inspect your grill for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Check the hoses, valves, and propane tank for any leaks or damage, and replace any parts that are worn or damaged.

By taking proper precautions and regularly cleaning your grill, you can reduce the risk of a grease fire and ensure that your grill stays in good working order for years to come.

A dirty grill can harbor harmful bacteria that can contaminate the food you cook on it, leading to foodborne illnesses such as salmonella and E. coli. When you cook on a dirty grill, the high heat may kill some of the bacteria, but it's not enough to eliminate all of them.

Over time, the bacteria can multiply and pose a health risk to anyone who eats the contaminated food.

To avoid foodborne illnesses, it's important to clean your grill regularly. Start by scraping the grates to remove any stuck-on debris and then wipe them down with a damp cloth or sponge. Make sure to clean the inside of the grill as well, including the drip pan, burners, and any other surfaces that come into contact with food. 

Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any stubborn buildup, and then wipe everything down with a soapy solution. Rinse thoroughly and allow the grill to dry completely before using it again.

In addition to cleaning your grill, it's also important to follow proper food safety practices when grilling. Always wash your hands before and after handling food, and use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. 

Cook food to the appropriate temperature, and use a food thermometer to ensure that it's safe to eat. Finally, refrigerate any leftover food promptly to prevent bacterial growth.

By regularly cleaning your grill and following proper food safety practices, you can ensure that your food is safe to eat and avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Taking care of your grill is not just important for your health and safety, but it can also impact the lifespan of the grill. Neglecting your grill can lead to rust and corrosion, which can weaken the structure of the grill and cause it to break down prematurely. 

Rust and corrosion can also damage the burners, igniters, and other components of the grill, leading to costly repairs or even the need for a replacement.

Regular cleaning of your grill can help prevent rust and corrosion from developing. By removing any grease, food particles, and other debris from the grates and interior of the grill, you can reduce the likelihood of moisture accumulating and causing rust. 

When moisture combines with grease and food particles, it creates the perfect environment for rust to develop. Additionally, cleaning the exterior of the grill can prevent dirt and other contaminants from scratching or damaging the finish.

A well-maintained grill also operates more efficiently, reducing wear and tear on the components and prolonging its life. 

When the grates and burners are free of debris, they can heat up more quickly and evenly, reducing the need for prolonged exposure to high temperatures. This can help reduce the amount of stress on the components and increase their lifespan.

Regular maintenance can also help identify any issues with the grill before they become more serious and expensive to fix. By inspecting the grill regularly, you can spot any signs of wear and tear or damage and take steps to repair or replace parts as needed.

4. Prevent Tarnishing The Flavor of Your Food

Cooking on a dirty grill can have a negative impact on the flavor of your food. When food is cooked on a dirty grill, it can pick up residue and flavors from previous meals. This can affect the taste of your food and may even cause it to taste burnt or bitter. 

The build-up of grease and food particles on the grates can also create an uneven cooking surface, which can result in food being cooked unevenly or sticking to the grates.

In addition to affecting the flavor of your food, a dirty grill can also impart an unpleasant taste to your food. Grease, smoke, and other contaminants can accumulate inside the grill, and when the grill is heated, these particles can be released into the air and settle on your food. 

This can result in a foul taste and smell that can be difficult to remove.

Regular cleaning of your grill can help ensure that your food tastes its best and that you enjoy the full flavor of your barbecue. By cleaning the grates and interior of the grill, you can remove any residue and contaminants that may affect the taste of your food. 

This will create a clean, even cooking surface that will allow your food to cook evenly and without sticking.

Additionally, cleaning the exterior of your grill can help remove any smoke or grease residue that may have accumulated over time. This will not only help keep your grill looking clean and new, but it will also prevent any unpleasant flavors from being transferred to your food.

In conclusion, maintaining a clean grill is crucial for your health, safety, and overall grilling experience. A dirty grill can pose a risk of grease fires and bacterial infections, as well as affect the taste of your food. 

Regular cleaning of the grates, interior, and exterior of the grill can prevent these issues and prolong the life of your grill.

By keeping your grill in good condition, you can enjoy safe, delicious, and flavorful grilled meals for years to come. We recommend the Brush Daddy Steam Cleaning grill brush for keeping your grates clean before and after each use.

Remember, a little bit of cleaning goes a long way in ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your grill.