Your charcoal chimney is safe. Here’s how to not mess that up.

Pretty simple—just follow a few commonsense rules.

First, put the chimney on a non-flammable surface. Concrete, paving stones, gravel — not on your wooden deck, not on grass, and definitely not on a plastic table. That’s where most accidents happen.

Second, use crumpled newspaper in the bottom, not lighter fluid. If you soak the charcoal with fluid and then try to light a chimney, that fluid can pool in the bottom and flash when the fire hits it. You don’t want a fireball near your face.

Don’t overfill the chimney. Stick to the line or the recommended amount for your grill size. More charcoal ≠ better. It just makes it heavier and harder to pour safely.

Use a long match or a grill lighter. Keep your fingers away from the bottom vents. Wear