Summary: AAA reminds football fans that tailgating carries real risks, from grill fires and burn injuries to impaired-driving crashes. As stadium parking lots fill this season, safety experts are urging tailgaters to protect themselves, their vehicles, and others by avoiding common game-day mistakes.
DEARBORN, Mich. (September 9, 2026) — Football season brings fans together in stadium parking lots across the country, but AAA warns that tailgating can also lead to vehicle fires, burn injuries, property damage, insurance claims, and impaired-driving crashes when basic safety precautions are overlooked.
“Most tailgating incidents aren’t caused by bad intentions. They’re caused by distractions,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “It can be easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of game day and overlook simple safety steps that could prevent a fire, injury, or major property damage.”
How Dangerous Can a Tailgating Grill Be?
Tailgating in crowded parking lots puts open flames, hot coals, propane tanks, and flammable materials just feet away from vehicles and people. Unlike backyard grilling, tailgates often take place in tight spaces where a small flare-up can quickly spread to nearby vehicles, tents, coolers, and other equipment.
To reduce the risk of fire, AAA recommends:
- Position your grill away from vehicles, tents, and other flammable gear.
- Keep a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach.
- Never leave a lit grill unattended, even briefly.
When is a Tailgating Grill No Longer a Fire Hazard?
One of the biggest tailgating fire risks can emerge after fans head into the stadium. Hot coals, grease trays, and recently extinguished grills can remain dangerous long after the cooking is done.
In 2022, a tailgating fire at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami destroyed 11 vehicles after an unattended grill ignited a blaze beneath a parked car while many fans were inside watching the game.
“Many fans assume the danger ends when the cooking stops,” Woodland said. “But hot coals and grills can remain dangerous long after kickoff. Taking a few extra minutes to shut everything down properly can prevent a fire and thousands of dollars in damage.”
Before leaving the tailgate, AAA urges fans to:
- Fully extinguish all flames and coals.
- Allow grills and grease trays to cool completely in an open area.
- Never place hot grilling equipment inside a vehicle.
- Dispose of ashes in a metal container with a lid.
- Never dump ashes on the ground or into plastic bags.
- Do a final walk-around to check for smoke, embers, leaking fuel, or hot equipment.
- Secure the grill before transporting it.
These simple steps can help prevent vehicle fires, property damage, and costly insurance claims.
How Can Fans Avoid an Impaired Driving Crash After Tailgating?
Impaired driving remains one of the most serious risks associated with tailgating. Nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities involve an alcohol-impaired driver. While fans often focus on getting to the stadium safely, AAA reminds them that planning a safe trip home is just as important.
AAA recommends:
- Designate a sober driver before festivities begin.
- Offer water and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the event.
- Use rideshare services or alternative transportation if needed.
- Never allow an impaired friend or family member to get behind the wheel.
“Fans spend a lot of time planning where they’ll park, what they’ll cook, and who they’ll cheer for,” Woodland said. “They should spend just as much time planning how they’ll get home. A football game lasts a few hours. The consequences of an impaired-driving crash can last a lifetime.”
About AAA – The Auto Club Group
The Auto Club Group (ACG), named a 2026 Forbes Most Trusted Company in America, is the second-largest AAA club in North America, with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG is part of the national AAA federation, which serves more than 66 million members across the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, download the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.
