SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — As Memorial Day weekend draws millions of Illinoisans outdoors for grilling and campfires, the Illinois State Fire Marshal is urging residents to take precautions before firing up the grill.

The warning comes backed by sobering national data. According to the National Fire Protection Association, gas grills are involved in an average of 9,287 home fires per year, and more than one-quarter of grill structure fires start on an exterior balcony or open porch. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that an average of 21,682 patients per year visited emergency rooms for injuries involving grills between 2020 and 2024.

“First responders are prepared for increased calls during holiday weekends, but prevention is always the best response,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Michele Pankow. “It’s important to inspect and clean your grills before using them this summer and to check with your local community to ensure small recreational fires are allowed.”

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is reminding residents of several key safety steps: grills should only be used outdoors and placed well away from the home, deck railings, eaves, and overhanging branches. Children and pets should be kept at least three feet from the grilling area at all times, and grills should never be left unattended. Propane users are advised to check hoses and gas tanks for leaks before each use, and to always open the lid before lighting a gas grill. Anyone who smells gas while grilling should immediately move away from the grill and call the fire department.

For charcoal grill users, coals should be fully cooled before disposal in a metal container. Grease and fat buildup should be cleaned from grill surfaces and drip trays regularly to reduce fire risk.

Those planning campfires or bonfires this weekend are reminded to build fires at least 25 feet from tents, shrubs, and other flammable materials, and to verify that fires are permitted in the area. Chimineas, fire pits, and outdoor fireplaces should be positioned at least 10 feet from the home or any combustible surface.

July is historically the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August — making the Memorial Day weekend an especially critical time to exercise caution. More grilling safety information is available through the National Fire Protection Association at nfpa.org.