How large of KBQ "fire-safe" parameter needed?

[jjdbike]

Hello fellow stick burners,

I'm loving my KBQ. I've noticed that a "fire-safe" buffer zone is needed. Hot coals and embers drop on the ground when adding wood and especially when "fluffing" coals.

I am planning - designing an area for the KBQ. How large of a "fire-safe" parameter do you folks feel is prudent? Also, what materials and or surfaces do you use under your KBQ? I have a mat that I used under my previous BGE. It is some type of texturized black material over a solid rigid board. It works well because its portable and you can hoes it off when it gets messy. Something like this would be great, as bricks, pavers etc would get dirty and messy underneath of the cooker.

I look forward to reading your responses.

Respectfully,
JD

[lostclusters]

I'd say 3 -5 feet

[fzxdoc]

It might be best to talk to KBQ customer service as well to get answers to your questions. It never hurts to pick the vendor's brains.

Kathryn

[RonB]

I think wind will also play a part. Be extra careful on windy days.

[Spinaker]

I like to use grill mats to put under my KBQ. And I never use it on any flammable surface, like a deck. If you are going to have it close to a wall of some kind, I would use concrete or gypsum board to make it fire resistant. I never use mine with a flammable wall or anything around it, but if I did, I would make sure to have something like this installed. Also, and air gap between the fireboard and the actual wall is a good idea as well. An air gap is excellent insulation against heat and cold. (Think Yeti tumblers, Steel Kamados etc.)

Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher that is not buried somewhere and can be accessed quickly in the extremely rare case of emergency. Additionally, I would say this type of stuff goes with any grill. (Wood, Charcoal or Gas)

[Histrix]

The FAQ from the KBQ website tells you their position on your question:

WARNING

• Outdoor use only. Fire produces carbon monoxide gas
• Locate pit at least 6 ft from combustible materials and on a fireproof surface, e.g., stone or concrete
• Keep kids/pets clear. Firebox surfaces reach 1,200F
• Sparks will fly. Don’t use during outdoor burn bans
• Wear shoes or you will find hot embers the hard way

FAILURE TO HEED WARNINGS MAY CAUSE VAST PROPERTY DAMAGE, AGONIZING AND DEBILITATING PERSONAL INJURY, and/or DEATH

[Spinaker]

Best warning ever put on a smoker. i still get a kick out of it when I read the fan box.

[frigate]

I built a 6 foot wide by 10.5 foot long paver base for my KBQ.



In addition to the charged hose and small fire extinguisher in the picture I now also have a 5 lb. fire extinguisher.

This coming August Fifteenth at 5:30PM will make 40 years since I was blown up on a boat. Second and third degree burns over 35% of my body. It has taken a long time for me to be able to deal fire and embers. I only bring this up because this does happen. Be Carefull.

[jjdbike]

Thanks much everyone. Great ideas!
JD

[Bellefonte Smoker]

We have a 12'x12' concrete "patio" where the BGE's and the KBQ live. I move the KBQ to the center of the patio when I use it.

[Chiller Phil]

Just finished a cook.
Three embers fell out while tending the coal bed, all landing on top of the cook chamber.