June 20, 2026, 10:24 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Summer, sun, and the smell of barbecue: When temperatures rise, many people head outdoors with tongs and sausages. But during extreme heat and dryness, special precautions are necessary not only for the human body. There are also several points to consider when grilling. myHOMEBOOK explains how grilling on particularly hot days differs from an ordinary barbecue evening.
Even small sparks can start a fire
In general, the same safety rules always apply when grilling. However, heat and dry periods make plants and other materials more flammable. As a result, even small sparks or hot ash can be enough to start a fire.
“The distance to flammable areas must be adjusted if they are drier due to heat–for example, to a dried-out shrub in the garden,” explains Silvia Oestreicher from the German Firefighters Association (DFV). Therefore, those grilling on particularly hot days should choose a location as far away as possible from dry hedges, shrubs, or other easily flammable materials.
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What to pay special attention to during heat and dryness
From the fire department’s perspective, safety begins with setup. “Make sure the grill has a secure stand. Do not build makeshift constructions,” advises Oestreicher. If a grill tips over or wobbles, embers or burning fat can quickly cause a fire.
The fire department warns against another classic mistake: using spirits or other accelerants. The expert strongly advises against this. “Never pour spirits or other flammable liquids onto the embers!” The resulting flash flames can cause severe burns.
It is equally important never to leave the grill unattended. This is especially true when children or free-roaming pets are nearby, as even a brief moment of inattention can lead to dangerous situations.
Dry hedges, mulch, and wooden decks are particularly at risk
Not every area in the garden is suitable as a grilling spot. Garden owners should be particularly cautious near dried-out lawns, dry hedges and shrubs, and mulch beds. Wooden decks, fences, and garden furniture made of flammable materials can also be damaged by flying sparks or catch fire.
According to the German Firefighters Association, a grill should generally not be placed on dried-out meadows or grass areas. Instead, a solid, preferably non-flammable surface is recommended.
Those grilling at a fire pit or campfire should take additional precautions. “Create a non-flammable strip of earth, sand, or stones around the grill area,” recommends Oestreicher.
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Extinguishing agents should always be within reach
Many people only think of additional safety measures during extreme heat. However, an extinguishing agent is essential for every barbecue evening. “In general, you should have an extinguishing agent ready, not just in extreme heat–but especially then,” says the expert. A bucket of water, a garden hose, or a fire extinguisher can help quickly control an incipient fire.
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The danger doesn’t end with the last sausage
Caution is also advised after grilling. “When the party is over, let the ash cool completely before disposing of it,” advises Oestreicher. Hot ash should never be placed in boxes, garbage bags, or plastic containers. Even seemingly extinguished embers can start fires hours later.
Only when the ash is completely cooled can it be disposed of. Smaller amounts of charcoal ash typically belong in the residual waste. To be completely safe, store the ash in a fireproof metal container with a lid until no heat remains.
Never use a grill in enclosed spaces
If bad weather suddenly approaches, the grill should not be brought into the house, garage, or other enclosed spaces. This also applies to already extinguished grills. “Even for cooling down, the extinguished grill has no place here,” emphasizes Oestreicher. “There is a risk of deadly fire gases.”
By following these rules, you can safely grill even on hot summer days–and prevent a cozy evening in the garden from turning into a fire department call.