NOTICE: Starting on June 6, 2022, all guests and customers visiting the Division of Licensing Services and/or Division of Corporations in our Albany office will be required to have a picture ID and check in with security in the lobby.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer for many New Yorkers, and with it, the start of the grilling season. As New Yorkers get ready to fire up their grills this Memorial Day weekend, the New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) reminds consumers to consider some important safety tips for safe summer barbecues.

“ As we are looking to have fun with family and friends, it is important to keep in mind some safety tips that can make our summer activities more enjoyable,” said Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez. “This Memorial Day Weekend marks the beginning of the summer and there is  nothing better than to cook for visitors and relatives to mark the occasion so let’s be proactive and careful by following the tips that will make our gatherings memorable and full of great food and a lot of fun just about all summer long.”

According to statistics from Fire Departments around the United States, there are about 10,600 home grill fires reported annually included around 4,900 fires per year in or on structures. Besides, about 100 deaths due to grill fire injuries are reported and about $135 million in direct property damage per year. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency’s US Fire Administration statistics also reflect that almost half of home grill fires happen between 5-8 p.m. and the majority of home grill fires happen between May and August, the summer months when grills are used more often. Furthermore, 79% of all grill fires are from gas grills

Tips for Using Your Grill Safely:

Before lighting the grill do a safety check.

Gas and charcoal grills present a risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning that could result in injury or death. Of the thousands of grill-related injuries reported in hospital emergency departments each year, many are related to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Pay close attention once the grill is lit.

Store your grill and fuel tanks safely.

Keep food safety in mind.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers on product safety, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at  www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection .

For more consumer protection tips, follow the Division on social media at Twitter:  @NYSConsumer  and Facebook:  www.facebook.com/nysconsumer .

This page is available in other languages