Charcoal Safety 101: The Easy Way to Shut Down Charcoal/Wood fire

Charcoal Safety 101: The Easy Way to Shut Down Charcoal/Wood fire

Grilling doesn’t end when the food comes off the heat.
 the way you end the session matters just as much as how you start it.

The good news?
Putting out the fire and cleaning up afterward doesn’t have to feel like work. In fact, with the right steps, the end of a BBQ can be one of the best moments of the whole day — slow, warm, and relaxing.

Here’s how to shut down your charcoal safely and easily on any open-fire Grillit model.

1. Enjoy the Last Glow

One of the best parts about open-fire grilling is the time after you finish cooking.

When the fire is softer and slower:

  • Warm a teapot

  • Toast some marshmallows

  • Sit around the grill with friends

  • Enjoy the last warmth of the day

This “slow landing” is part of the lifestyle not just cooking, but spending time around fire.

2. Let the Fire Settle Naturally

 The safest way to finish a session is to simply let the heat calm down on its own.

When the food is done:

  • Spread the charcoal evenly using a metal tool

  • Let it burn down and settle

  • Reduce airflow around the grill if possible (wind increases heat)

On open fire grills, charcoal naturally softens and turns to ash on its own — no need to rush the process.

2. When You Need to Speed Things Up

If you don’t want to wait for the charcoal to die out naturally, here are safe ways to accelerate the cool-down:

  • Spread the coals into a thin layer

  • Sprinkle small amounts of water gently (avoid splashing)

  • Let the steam settle

  • Stir again

  • Repeat lightly if needed

The trick is patience — small amounts of water, not dumping a whole bottle.



3. Make Sure Everything Is Fully Cool

Before cleaning or disposing of ash:

  • Stir the coals with a metal stick

  • Check for hidden heat pockets

  • If any warmth remains, give it a few more minutes

Open-fire grills tend to hold small glowing pieces under ash — a quick check keeps everything safe.

4. Dispose of Ash the Easy Way

Once the charcoal is fully cold:

  1. Use a metal scoop or tray

  2. Throw it away normally

If you’re using natural charcoal, you can even mix small amounts of the ash into soil — it enriches plants.

5. Quick, Simple Cleaning (It Really Is Simple)

Cleaning an open-fire grill is not the long process people imagine.

For SlimBBQ, ARK80, and Double Barrel:

  • Brush off ash from the firebox

  • Wipe surfaces with a dry cloth

  • Add a light coat of oil to any carbon steel plates (like the ARK80 top plate) to maintain the seasoning

That’s it.
Open-fire grills are meant to be straightforward.

Final Thought

Grilling isn’t only about heat; it’s about control, respect, and enjoying the moment.
With a little care at the end of each session, your Grillit — whether SlimBBQ, Double Barrel, or ARK80 — stays in top shape and ready for your next fire.

And the shutdown becomes part of the experience, not a chore.