NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – As football season brings thousands of fans to stadium parking lots across Tennessee and the nation, AAA is reminding tailgaters that game-day celebrations can quickly turn dangerous if basic safety precautions are ignored.
The Auto Club Group issued a warning Wednesday highlighting the most common tailgating risks, including grill fires, burn injuries, property damage and impaired-driving crashes.
“Most tailgating incidents aren’t caused by bad intentions. They’re caused by distractions,” said AAA spokeswoman Megan Cooper. “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.”
Fire Risks in Crowded Parking Lots
AAA says tailgating often creates unique fire hazards because grills, propane tanks and hot coals are frequently located just feet from vehicles, tents and large crowds.
Unlike backyard cookouts, stadium parking lots can place flammable materials in close proximity, increasing the risk that a small flare-up could spread quickly to nearby vehicles and equipment.
To reduce fire dangers, AAA recommends:
- Positioning grills away from vehicles, tents and coolers
- Keeping a fire extinguisher nearby
- Never leaving a lit grill unattended
Dangers Continue After Cooking Ends
Safety officials say one of the biggest misconceptions among tailgaters is that the danger disappears once food preparation is complete.
AAA pointed to a 2022 incident at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, where an unattended grill sparked a fire that destroyed 11 vehicles while many fans were inside the stadium watching the game.
“Many fans assume the danger ends when the cooking stops,” Cooper 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 heading into the stadium, AAA recommends:
- Fully extinguishing all flames and coals
- Allowing grills and grease trays to cool completely
- Never storing hot grilling equipment inside a vehicle
- Disposing of ashes in a metal container with a lid
- Avoiding disposal of ashes in plastic bags or on the ground
- Conducting a final inspection for smoke, embers or leaking fuel
- Securing grills before transportation
Impaired Driving Remains a Major Concern
AAA says impaired driving remains one of the most significant hazards associated with football weekends.
The organization notes that nearly one-third of traffic fatalities involve an alcohol-impaired driver. Officials are encouraging fans to plan their transportation before arriving at a tailgate.
AAA recommends:
- Choosing a designated sober driver before festivities begin
- Providing water and non-alcoholic beverages
- Using rideshare services when necessary
- Preventing impaired friends or family members from driving
“Fans can tell you exactly where they’re parking, what they’re grilling, and what time they’re arriving,” Cooper said. “They should be just as confident about how they’re getting home, because the safest plan is the one you make before the tailgate starts.”
AAA says a few minutes of preparation can help fans avoid accidents, injuries and costly property damage while enjoying football season safely.
