Positioning a grill: Where you should not place a grill

Summertime is barbecue time. But barbecuing isn't allowed everywhere. Regardless of the bans, there are places where grills don't belong for safety reasons.

Grills have no place anywhere where barbecuing is prohibited. But even in legal areas, there are areas where a grill can even be dangerous. Whether it's a coal or gas stove, it doesn't matter. The following article explains where grills have no place.

Anyone using a grill must maintain a certain distance, and not just from a neighbor's window. While the manufacturer's instructions provide a basic guide, they are not always sufficient. If using a large gas or charcoal grill, a distance of three meters from the neighbor's property line must be maintained. The distance to the nearest building must be at least five meters.

If a building made of flammable materials such as wood or tent structures is located in the immediate vicinity, a minimum distance of eight meters must be maintained. These measures serve as fire protection and prevent flying sparks from causing a fire.

The German Real Estate Association emphasizes the importance of fire safety when barbecuing on balconies. Charcoal is taboo, as the grills reach temperatures of 800 degrees Celsius and can therefore be dangerous. Flying sparks can even reach the neighboring balcony, and the straw mat can quickly become a fire hazard.

It's easier to maintain distances in the garden, but even here, the grill should never be placed directly on the grass. It needs a fireproof base and a sheltered spot. If there's garden furniture nearby, a minimum distance of one meter must be maintained.

During the summer months, the risk of dry-season fires increases. If the grass is very dry, barbecuing can be dangerous even in a suitable location. TÜV Thüringen points out that barbecuing with charcoal poses an underestimated risk in hot, dry conditions.

As the risk of forest fires increases, so does the risk of a garden fire. Grills have no place near trees and bushes, nor on dry grass. According to the TÜV (German Technical Inspection Association), anyone grilling should always have a water source available for extinguishing in an emergency.

The TÜV also points out that electric or gas grills are safer. With gas grills, the hood prevents sparks from flying, while with electric grills, no sparks are produced.

When a summer rain washes the sausages off the grill, trouble sets in. Grilling with a gas grill is also possible under a roof, provided there's sufficient ventilation.

For a wood-fired grill, a roof made of flammable materials is a no-go for several reasons. Flying sparks endanger the structure of the roof, for example, if you're grilling under a wooden carport. The high levels of smoke can also cause breathing difficulties.

A gas grill is safer when operated under a suitable roof. Good ventilation is still important, though. At least two sides should be provided for air circulation; in a conservatory, the roof and side walls would be suitable.