Home Grilling Safety Tips: How to Keep the Flame and the Fun Under Control

As temperatures rise, outdoor grilling becomes a staple of the season. Whether it’s burgers on a charcoal grill or veggies sizzling on propane, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a backyard barbecue. But with nearly 9,000 home fires involving grills reported annually by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), it’s essential to prioritize safety before you light the flame.

Here are some simple but important tips to ensure your grilling season stays safe and enjoyable:

Grill Placement Matters

• Keep your grill at least 3 feet away from your home, outdoor furniture, trees, and anything else that could catch fire.

• Never use your grill under an overhang, roof, or near low-hanging branches. Even a small flare-up could lead to serious damage.

• Avoid grilling in enclosed or unventilated areas like garages or porches -this poses both fire and carbon monoxide risks.

Protect Your Family and Pets

• Keep children and pets away from the grilling zone until the grill has completely cooled.

• Create a safety perimeter and make sure kids know it’s off-limits.

Gas Grill Safety Tips

• Always check the connection between the propane tank and fuel line for leaks before firing it up.

• If you suspect a leak, turn off the gas immediately and have the unit serviced – never use a match to check for gas.

• If your flame goes out mid-cook, turn off the gas and wait at least five minutes before attempting to relight.

Charcoal Grill Precautions

• Only use starter fluid designed for charcoal grills – never for gas grills.

• Store starter fluid away from heat sources and out of reach of children.

Avoid Burns and Flare-Ups

• Use long-handled utensils to keep your hands a safe distance from the flames.

• Keep baking soda nearby to extinguish small grease fires safely (never use water on a grease fire).

 Be Prepared

• Keep a fire extinguisher or water source close by.

• Stay by your grill while cooking – unattended grills are one of the top causes of fire incidents.

Grilling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and bring people together – but a little caution goes a long way. Following these safety guidelines can help you enjoy a summer full of great meals and peace of mind.

Have questions about protecting your home or need more seasonal safety tips? Reach out to our team – we’re here to help you stay safe all year long.

Grilling Safety in Condominium Associations: What You Need to Know Before You BBQ

Grilling is one of summer’s greatest pleasures – but when you live in a condominium or multi-family building, it’s critical to understand the safety guidelines and restrictions that protect your community. Each year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports nearly 9,000 home fires involving grills. These fires can cause serious property damage and put lives at risk, which is why strict rules are in place for where and how grilling can occur.

Here’s a breakdown of key safety rules and reminders to keep in mind this grilling season:

Grilling Restrictions in Condo and Apartment Settings

To protect residents and property, the following rules typically apply in most condominium associations:

• No grills of any kind – gas, electric,  charcoal or otherwise – are allowed to be used (follow NFPA Guidelines):

  • On balconies

  • Under building overhangs

  • Within 10 feet of any building or combustible surface

• Grills may not be stored on balconies – even if they’re not in use.

• Charcoal, wood, and pellet-burning grills are not permitted at all due to their high fire risk and lack of controlled shutoff.

Gas Grill Safety Reminders

If your association allows gas grills under specific conditions, it’s essential to follow these safety tips:

• Storage: Gas grills may be stored on ground-level concrete patios or in garage units, but they must be moved at least 10 feet away from the building and not used under any overhang or balcony.

• Propane:

  • Propane tanks must not be stored inside your living unit under any circumstances.

  • Always check the propane tank-to-fuel-line connection for leaks before use.

  • If you smell gas or suspect a leak, shut off the propane immediately and do not ignite the grill.

• Usage:

  • Always turn off the main gas line when the grill is not in use.

  • Keep children and pets away from the grill area until the grill has cooled completely.

Keep Your Community Safe

Whether you’re flipping burgers or roasting veggies, remember that the privilege of grilling comes with responsibility. Following these guidelines not only helps prevent fires but also ensures that everyone in your condominium community can enjoy a safe and relaxing summer.

For more information, visit nfpa.org or contact your property manager.

Stay safe and grill smart!

Summer Safety & Risk Management for Condo Communities

As temperatures rise and residents enjoy outdoor activities, it’s essential for condominium associations to recognize and manage summer-related risks. From grilling safety to pool management, taking proactive steps can help reduce liability and promote a safe, enjoyable environment for all.

Grilling Safety

Grills are a major fire hazard in multi-family properties. With thousands of grill-related fires reported annually, associations should enforce the following safety measures:

• No grills on balconies

• Keep grills at least 20 feet away from buildings, decks, or trees

• Never leave a grill unattended

• Clean grills regularly to avoid grease buildup

• Grill outdoors only, in well-ventilated areas

• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby

Pool & Spa Oversight

Pools are a great amenity, but they come with responsibility. Associations should:

• Train staff to conduct frequent safety checks

• Enforce posted pool rules

• Invest in emergency equipment and proper training

• Maintain facilities in excellent condition

• Follow state and local regulations

Ponds & Lakes

Whether natural or manmade, ponds and lakes bring beauty—and potential liability. Associations should:

• Clearly define intended use (e.g., aesthetic, retention, recreation)

• Install signage like “No Swimming” or “Private Property”

• Use fencing, lighting, or surveillance where appropriate

• Plan for unauthorized use such as boating or fishing

• Recognize these features as potential “attractive nuisances”

Playground Safety

To prevent injuries on playgrounds:

• Remove or repair hazardous equipment

• Ensure surfaces use safety-tested materials like rubber mats or tiles

• Regularly inspect for rust, splinters, or instability

• For more, visit the CPSC Playground Safety Guide

Fireworks Awareness

Fireworks can reach temperatures of 1,200°F and are responsible for numerous ER visits each year. Best practices include:

• Avoid all non-professional use

• Keep a safe distance (at least 500 feet) from displays

• Report any found fireworks to authorities—do not touch

• Leave areas where fireworks are being used by amateurs

A safe summer starts with smart planning. Condominium associations that implement these risk management practices not only protect their properties and residents but also create a safer, more welcoming community for everyone to enjoy.

How Your Roof Affects Your Insurance – and Your Wallet

Your roof does more than just keep the rain out – it plays a major role in your home or business insurance coverage, cost, and even eligibility. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, understanding how your roof impacts your policy is key to avoiding costly surprises.

Roof Condition Impacts Insurance Coverage

The age and condition of your roof are top factors in how insurance companies evaluate risk. If your roof is over 20 years old, expect a required inspection – or potentially limited coverage. Many insurers will only offer Actual Cash Value (ACV) policies for older roofs, meaning depreciation is factored in, leaving you with a smaller payout. Newer roofs, especially those made from impact-resistant materials, may qualify for Replacement Cost Value (RCV) coverage.

Extreme Weather Is Driving Premium Increases

Roof-related claims from hail, wind, and wildfires make up 70–90% of insured residential catastrophic losses in many years. As natural disasters intensify, insurance companies are increasing premiums, scaling back coverage, or pulling out of high-risk markets altogether. Wildfire-prone regions, in particular, are seeing major changes in policy requirements and availability.

Roofing Fraud and Scams

States like Florida have been hit hard by roofing scams, which drive up costs for everyone. Be wary of:

• Contractors exaggerating damage or creating it

• Lowball bids that skip quality

• Pressure to perform unnecessary or expensive temporary fixes

Stick with licensed, insured contractors and always get multiple estimates.

Roof Shape and Materials Matter

Your premium can be influenced by:

• Roof shape: Hip roofs are more wind-resistant than gable roofs.

• Pitch: Steeper slopes shed water and snow more effectively.

• Material: Metal, slate, and tile are generally more durable than asphalt shingles – and may earn you a discount. Wood shake? High fire risk, higher rates.

Maintenance Is Key

Insurance companies expect you to maintain your roof. Routine inspections, trimming overhanging branches, cleaning gutters, and removing storm debris can extend your roof’s life – and may even be required to maintain your policy.

Watch for these signs it’s time for repair or replacement:

• Curling or missing shingles

• Sagging areas

• Algae growth

• Water stains on ceilings

• Higher energy bills

Roof Warranties: Don’t Be Misled

Shingle warranties (25–50 years) only cover manufacturer defects – not wear, storm damage, or improper installation. Always check the fine print and keep records of inspections and repairs.

Resilient Roofs = Insurance Savings

Programs like FORTIFIED Roofing, developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), offer beyond-code protection from high winds, hail, and hurricanes. In some states, building or upgrading to these standards can earn you insurance discounts of 20-55%.

Grants and Discounts Are Available

Roof repairs can be expensive, but help exists:

• USDA Rural Repair Grants

• My Safe Florida Home matching funds

• Strengthen Alabama Homes program

• Wind mitigation discounts (5-35%) for impact-resistant roofs

Aerial Imagery and Inspections

Insurers are increasingly using drones and satellite tech to inspect roofs. This helps assess risk, verify claims, and even spot issues like overhanging branches or worn shingles that could affect your premium or coverage eligibility.

Bottom Line: A well-maintained, resilient roof isn’t just good for your home-  it’s good for your insurance, too. Staying proactive with inspections, repairs, and upgrades can lead to better coverage, fewer claim issues, and lower premiums.

Need help navigating insurance for your roof? Contact your insurance professional to review your current policy and options for added protection. A stronger roof means stronger peace of mind.

Sources: Insurance Information Institute, IBHS, NICB, Hanover Insurance