Can You Grill Under a Canopy Tent? Think Twice!

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting, you might consider setting up your grill under a canopy tent to enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from the sun or rain. But before you do, there are some important things you need to know to keep yourself and your guests safe.

So, can you grill under a canopy tent? The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. While possible, it’s not recommended due to many potential risks.

In this article, we’ll dive into the potential risks and the safety conditions that must be met and provide you with all the information you need to know to do it safely. So, keep reading to learn more!

Is It Safe to Grill Under a Canopy Tent?

Grills are a common source of fire hazards, and many risks are involved. That’s why many grill manufacturers recommend only using their grills outdoors, not indoors or under any overhead structure.

Fire Hazards

According to the NFPA, there was an average of 10,600 home structure and outdoor fires involving grills per year during 2014-2018.

If you use a grill under a canopy tent, there is a high risk that the tent can catch fire due to the hot embers and flames from the grill.

Furthermore, the construction of the canopy tent can also pose additional risks. Not all tent parts may be fireproof, and using flame-retardant fabric that meets CPAI-84 and NFPA 701 specifications does not entirely eliminate fire dangers.

In addition, over time, it can decrease the effectiveness of flame retardant materials and cause the tent to stain and odor.

Carbon Dioxide Poisoning

Another risk is carbon dioxide poisoning. According to the CDC, hundreds of people die yearly due to accidental CO poisoning unrelated to fires.

Using a grill in an enclosed space, like under a canopy tent with walls, can lead to the accumulation of carbon dioxide and other dangerous gases, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Safety Precautions for Grilling under Your Canopy Tent

If you already know the hazards and still want to continue, here are some tips to ensure that no one gets hurt and nothing gets damaged while grilling under your canopy tent:

• First, ensure the canopy tent materials meet the CPAI-84 and NFPA 701 specifications. These specifications ensure that the fabric used in the tent is less likely to catch fire and can withstand exposure to flames without burning too easily.
• It’s also important that the canopy tent has proper ventilation to allow smoke and heat to escape. If you haven’t purchased a canopy tent yet, look for one with a vented roof to increase air circulation, like the ABCCANOPY Canopy. Additionally, consider installing an exhaust fan to suck the smoke out and reduce the smell of the cooking.

• Follow the recommended clearance by the NFPA and your grill’s manufacturer. The distance between the grill and any nearby objects should be adequate to prevent anything from catching fire. To ensure you have enough space between the grill and the canopy, use the highest setting given in yours.
• If you use a gas grill, check for gas leaks before each use. Gas leaks can be hazardous and can cause fires or explosions. Make it a habit to inspect your grill’s gas lines and connections regularly.
• Pre-cooking your meal inside your house before grilling is another way to ensure safety. This reduces the time the grill is in use and minimizes the chances of any accidents while cooking.
• Anchor your canopy tent securely to prevent it from moving or falling over. Strong winds can easily knock the cooking equipment over, causing damage or harm. If the weather turns bad, it’s best not to grill at all.
• Always have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies. You never know when a fire might break out, and it’s better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.
• Pick a spot far away from structures or objects that could catch fire. This is especially crucial if you’re grilling in a densely populated area or if flammable items are nearby. By choosing a safe location, you can prevent the fire from spreading, ensuring the safety of everyone around you.
• Lastly, always clean your grill before using it to prevent grease or leftover food from catching fire. A dirty grill can cause flare-ups and can be dangerous if left uncleaned.

Conclusion

Grilling under a canopy tent is not recommended due to the potential risks involved, especially for canopy tents with walls – enclosed spaces. If you want to grill safely, use your grill in an open space since it provides plenty of ventilation, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and smoke inhalation. Moreover, an open space will minimize the fire risk since there will be no nearby flammable objects.

Grilling is a fun and enjoyable activity, but it is essential to prioritize safety. By following the recommended safety precautions, you can reduce the risks. Stay safe and happy grilling!