Fire Safety Tips for Using Briquettes and Lump Charcoal

Master the flame without risking your home or your hands. Learn how to safely use, light, and dispose of charcoal for stress-free BBQ sessions every time.

Respect the Charcoal Fire

Charcoal grilling brings that smoky, nostalgic flavor we all love. But with great flavor comes greater responsibility — and a lot more open flame. Whether you’re using standard briquettes or natural lump charcoal, following safety best practices will keep your backyard cookout from becoming a backyard emergency.

Choose the Right Charcoal

Not all charcoal is created equal. Some types light faster, some burn hotter, and others burn cleaner.

Briquettes are uniform and longer-burning but often contain additives.

Lump charcoal is more natural, made from hardwood, and burns hotter and faster.

Pick your fuel based on what you’re cooking, and avoid using anything with unknown chemicals.

Safe Lighting Methods Only

No lighter fluid? No problem. In fact, that stuff is best avoided altogether. It’s flammable, smelly, and can cause dangerous flare-ups.

Use these safe methods instead:

•  Chimney starter: A metal cylinder that lights charcoal using just newspaper and airflow
•  Electric charcoal starter: A plug-in coil that heats charcoal safely
•   Natural fire starter cubes: Made from wood shavings or wax, and chemical-free

Never use gasoline, kerosene, or alcohol. Seriously — don’t even think about it.

Where You Light Matters

Only light charcoal outdoors in a well-ventilated, open space — never inside a garage, tent, or enclosed patio. Carbon monoxide can build up quickly, even if you think there’s enough airflow.
Keep the grill at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, and anything flammable (including your favorite lawn chair).

Keep Watch Like a Hawk

Charcoal fires can’t be turned off with the twist of a knob. Once it’s lit, it’s live — and it stays that way for hours. Never leave a charcoal grill unattended, especially around kids or pets.
Even when the coals look like they’re dying down, the embers can stay hot enough to start a fire or burn skin.

Manage Heat Zones Safely

Create a two-zone fire: one hot side for searing and one cooler side for indirect cooking. This not only improves your cooking control but gives you a safety zone in case flare-ups happen.
Have a spray bottle of water on hand for minor flare-ups — and never add unlit charcoal to a hot grill unless you’re experienced and know how to manage the airflow.

Handling Hot Ashes the Right Way

When the grill is done, let the coals burn out completely and the ashes cool — which can take up to 24–48 hours. Don’t dump hot coals in the trash or onto the ground.
Use a metal ash bucket or shovel the ashes into a metal container with a lid. Always store cooled ash away from any buildings or flammable materials.

Fireproof Gear Makes a Big Difference

Heat-resistant gloves, long tongs, and closed-toe shoes can help you avoid burns and dropped food. Don’t get caught barefoot near hot coals — one spark is all it takes.

Stay Safe, Stay Classic

Charcoal grilling brings the smoke, the sizzle, and the memories. But it also brings a little more risk than gas grilling. Keep your setup safe, your tools close, and your mind focused, and you’ll have nothing but good times and great food.