By Blessing 
Grilling can be a fun and tasty way to cook, but it comes with its share of risks—something many beginners may not fully grasp. Fires can ignite unexpectedly, and if you’re not prepared, things can get out of control quickly.
Former Detroit Lions offensive lineman T.J. Lang recently shared on social media how he managed to avoid a grilling disaster at home. The Lions’ sideline reporter explained that when flames from his grill got a bit too high, he kept his cool and took swift action. His solution? Dumping a pile of snow on the fire to extinguish it and prevent any further damage.
“When facing a life or death situation, it’s important to stay calm and find a quick solution,” Lang shared. “Some people say I’m a hero. I just did what anyone would do.”
Grill-related fires are more common than many realize. KSL Radio highlighted data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), revealing that July leads as the peak month for grill fires at 16%, followed by June at 14%, and May at 12%. The data, based on annual averages from 2017 to 2021, showed that gas grills were involved in an average of 9,079 home fires per year. Alarmingly, 20% of these incidents were linked to unclean grills, and over 25% started on balconies or open porches.
Experts advise grillers to maintain a clean cooking area by removing grease buildup, inspecting gas tanks and hoses for safety, and keeping grills away from flammable materials and house structures. Simple precautions can make all the difference in keeping a backyard barbecue safe and enjoyable.
Lang’s quick thinking serves as a reminder to always be prepared when grilling—it might just save your home or even your life.