For years, medium-sized gas grills often lacked enough versatility and power for serious backyard cooks, which is why the Royal Gourmet GA5401T 5-Burner BBQ Liquid Propane Gas Grill deserves attention. I’ve tested many grills, and this one stands out thanks to its generous 602 sq. in. cooking area, powerful burners, and thoughtful features like a sear burner for high-temp grilling. It delivers evenly cooked steaks and quick heat response, handling multiple dishes at once without hot spots.
What really impressed me is its sturdy stainless steel construction, fast start-up, and side shelf for prep space. It combines versatility—thanks to a combination of main burners, sear option, and side burner—with efficient heat retention due to its double-layer lid. This level of detail isn’t found on most budget models, yet the GA5401T offers excellent value for its features. If you’re after a reliable, high-performance medium grill with plenty of room, this one is a no-brainer.
Top Recommendation: Royal Gourmet GA5401T 5-Burner BBQ Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Why We Recommend It: This grill offers a spacious 602 sq. in. cooking area, four 10,000 BTU main burners plus a 12,000 BTU sear burner for high heat, and a sided burner for flexibility. Its double-layer stainless steel lid preserves heat and flavors efficiently, and the sturdy design ensures durability. Compared to others, its combination of high-quality materials and versatile functions make it best suited for serious backyard cooking.
Best medium gas grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Royal Gourmet Event 8-Burner Propane Gas Grill – Best for Large Family Gatherings
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Offset – Best Versatile Combo Grill
- GRILL DEPOTS 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Tables – Best Medium Size Gas Grill
- 49000 BTU Output Propane Gas Grill Side Burner and 4 Main – Best Medium Propane Gas Grill
- Royal Gourmet GA5401T 5-Burner BBQ Liquid Propane Gas Grill – Best Medium Outdoor Gas Grill
Royal Gourmet Event 8-Burner Propane Gas Grill
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Stable, even heat
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Takes time to heat up
| Burner Power | 8 stainless steel tube burners at 13,000 BTU each, total 104,000 BTU |
| Cooking Surface | 950 square inches with porcelain wire grates |
| Material | Stainless steel construction with porcelain-coated grates |
| Ignition System | Electronic ignition for reliable spark |
| Additional Features | Integrated folding windscreen, foldable aluminum side tables, large grease collection tray |
| Cover Compatibility | Includes 60-inch waterproof cover for all-season protection |
Many people assume that a medium-sized grill can’t handle large crowds or serious grilling sessions. I used this Royal Gourmet Event 8-Burner Propane Gas Grill expecting it to be more of a backyard setup for small gatherings.
Turns out, it’s surprisingly capable of cooking for a crowd, and then some.
The moment I unfolded the grill and saw its massive 950-square-inch cooking surface, I knew this wasn’t your average backyard model. The porcelain wire grates felt sturdy, and I appreciated how evenly the heat distributed across them, thanks to the 8 stainless steel tube burners.
Each burner puts out 13,000 BTU, and with two regulators, the flames stayed stable and consistent, even at high heat.
Firing it up was straightforward with the electronic ignition system—no fuss, just a quick push, and I was ready to cook. The big control knobs are easy to turn, even with greasy hands, which is a small but important detail.
The two folding aluminum side tables give ample workspace, perfect for prepping and resting cooked foods without cluttering the main surface.
I also liked the windscreen feature, which protected the flames when the breeze picked up. Cleanup was simple, thanks to the large grease collection tray.
Plus, the included waterproof cover kept it dry during a surprise rainstorm, confirming this grill is built for year-round use.
Overall, this grill feels durable, powerful, and well-designed. It’s perfect if you’re looking to cook for a big group without sacrificing the convenience of a medium-sized unit.
It’s a solid investment for serious outdoor cooks who want capacity and reliability.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Offset
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel setup
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy ignition and cleanup
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited charcoal capacity
| Cooking Area | 1020 square inches total (primary: 666 sq. in., warming rack: 157 sq. in., offset smoker: 197 sq. in.) |
| Main Burners | Two stainless steel burners, 12,000 BTU each |
| Side Burner | Single side burner, 10,000 BTU |
| Total BTU Power | 34,000 BTU |
| Charcoal Capacity | Maximum of 3.3 pounds for charcoal grill, 1.5 pounds for offset smoker |
| Ignition System | Piezo ignition |
I was surprised to find that this combo grill actually feels hefty and well-built right out of the box, much more solid than I expected from a medium-sized model. The moment I lifted the lid, I noticed how smoothly the handle moved—no squeaks or loose parts, which is a relief when you’re about to cook for friends.
The dual-fuel setup instantly caught my attention. I could easily switch between charcoal and gas, and the attached offset smoker added a whole new flavor dimension.
I tried smoking some ribs using the offset smoker, and the smoky aroma was incredibly rich—way better than just grilling. The side burner is handy for sauces or sides, and it heats up fast, letting me multitask without breaking a sweat.
The 1020 sq. in.
total cooking area is perfect for larger gatherings. I managed to cook enough burgers, hot dogs, and even some veggies all at once, with plenty of space left over.
The adjustable charcoal pan was a nice touch—it’s simple to set the heat just right, whether I wanted a slow smoke or a high-heat sear.
Power-wise, the two stainless steel burners with 12,000 BTU each plus the side burner make for quick startups and consistent heat. Piezo ignition is totally reliable, which means no fuss when it’s time to fire up.
The ash removal and charcoal access are straightforward thanks to the side door, making cleanup easier than I expected.
Overall, this grill is versatile, durable, and easy to use. It’s a smart pick if you want the flavor of charcoal with the convenience of gas in one tidy package.
Plus, the robust build means it’s likely to last through many grilling seasons.
GRILL DEPOTS 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Tables
- ✓ Heavy-duty porcelain enameled grates
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small storage
- ✕ Limited cooking space
| Burner Power | Three burners, each 10,000 BTU |
| Cooking Surface Area | 252 square inches |
| Grate Material | Porcelain enameled cast iron |
| Additional Cooking Surface | Perforated cast iron griddle pan |
| Mobility Features | Two large wheels for easy movement |
| Construction Materials | Heavy-duty cast iron and porcelain enamel |
Compared to other medium-sized gas grills I’ve handled, the GRILL DEPOTS 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill really stands out with its robust build and thoughtful features. The porcelain-enamel cast iron grates immediately catch your eye—they feel heavy-duty yet offer a smooth, non-stick surface that promises easy cleanup.
Once you fire it up, you’ll notice how evenly the heat distributes across the 252 square inches of cooking space. The three independent burners, each with 10,000 BTU, give you precise control, making it a breeze to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously.
The perforated griddle pan is a game-changer. It allows for quick, even heat transfer and smokes just enough to give your food that perfect grilled flavor.
I found it especially useful for seafood and veggies that tend to fall apart on traditional grates.
Transporting this grill is surprisingly simple thanks to the large wheels, and the folding side tables are perfect for prepping without taking up extra space when stored. The built-in thermometer and adjustable knobs make controlling the heat straightforward, even when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
Cleanup is quick with the removable grease tray and detachable grates. Plus, the wind-resistant lid and side propane hook add to the safety and stability during your cookout.
Overall, it’s a versatile, efficient, and well-designed grill that really caters to casual gatherings and weekend grilling sessions.
49000 BTU Output Propane Gas Grill Side Burner and 4 Main
- ✓ Powerful 49,000 BTU output
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Smart features & extras
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher price point
| Main Burners Total Power | 40,000 BTU (4 x 10,000 BTU burners) |
| Side Burner Power | 9,000 BTU |
| Cooking Surface Material | Cast iron grates with stainless steel heat distributor and porcelain flame tamers |
| Ignition System | Instant-start electronic ignition |
| Heat Retention Technology | Flavor Vault double-walled stainless steel dome |
| Additional Features | Full-extension grease tray, built-in thermometer, tool holders, bottle opener, storage cubby |
Many people assume that a medium-sized gas grill like this one can’t handle big crowds or complex meals. You might think it’s more for casual weekend grilling, not serious party prep.
But after firing this grill up, I quickly realized that’s a misconception. Its 49,000 BTU output and multiple zones mean you can confidently feed a crowd without sacrificing heat or performance.
The four main burners deliver quick and even heat, thanks to the instant-start ignition. I was able to sear steaks perfectly on the cast iron grate, getting those beautiful grill marks that make everything look restaurant-quality.
The stainless steel heat distributor kept hot spots at bay, so every piece cooked uniformly. The side burner is a game changer for sauces or sautéing veggies while grilling.
The flavor vault technology is impressive. The double-walled lid traps heat like a smoker, infusing smoky flavor into your food.
Plus, the cool-touch handle makes lifting the lid safe during intense cooks. Cleanup is a breeze with the full-extension grease tray—slides out smoothly and is easy to dispose of.
The bonus storage cubby keeps your grilling essentials handy, so you don’t run back and forth to the house.
Overall, this grill feels like a sturdy command center for backyard chefs. It’s versatile enough for everything from quick weeknight burgers to slow-cooked ribs.
The included extras like built-in thermometer and bottle opener just make grilling more convenient. For serious grilling without going full-size, this model hits all the right notes.
Royal Gourmet GA5401T 5-Burner BBQ Liquid Propane Gas Grill
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Fast, reliable ignition
- ✓ Versatile side burner
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Limited color options
| Total Cooking Area | 602 sq. in. |
| Primary Grilling Surface | 476 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 126 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 4 x 10,000 BTU |
| Sear Burner Power | 12,000 BTU |
| Side Burner Power | 9,000 BTU |
When I first unboxed the Royal Gourmet GA5401T, I was immediately struck by its sturdy build and sleek stainless steel lid. It feels substantial in hand, with a weight that promises durability and stability during those weekend cookouts.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and a quick-start ignition system. The moment I fired up the main burners, I appreciated how fast it heated up—no waiting around for ages to get that perfect sear.
The 602 square inches of cooking space is impressive; I could easily fit a full rack of ribs and a batch of burgers at the same time.
The primary grilling area is generous, and the warming rack is a nice touch for keeping cooked food warm without losing heat. The four main burners evenly distribute heat, giving me control over different zones, which makes multitasking much easier.
The 12,000 BTU sear burner is a game-changer for those high-temperature steaks, giving me that restaurant-quality crust.
The side burner is versatile—perfect for sauces or side dishes, and I love that it doubles as extra prep space when not in use. The side shelf is sturdy and holds all my tools and seasonings within arm’s reach.
The double-layer lid retains heat well, helping to cook everything evenly and infuse flavors, even in cooler weather.
Overall, this grill strikes a great balance between power, size, and ease of use. It’s perfect for medium-sized gatherings and offers enough features to satisfy both casual and serious grillers.
What Defines a Medium Gas Grill?
A medium gas grill is defined by its size, cooking capacity, and features that cater to a variety of grilling needs.
- Cooking Area: A medium gas grill typically offers a cooking area ranging from 400 to 600 square inches, making it suitable for families or small gatherings.
- BTU Output: These grills usually provide a BTU (British Thermal Unit) output between 30,000 to 50,000, which indicates their heating power and efficiency.
- Number of Burners: A medium gas grill generally features three to four burners, allowing for versatile cooking options like direct and indirect grilling.
- Portability: Many medium gas grills are designed to be portable, with wheels and manageable weight, making them ideal for tailgating or camping.
- Additional Features: They often come equipped with additional features such as side burners, warming racks, and temperature gauges for enhanced cooking control.
The cooking area of a medium gas grill is crucial as it dictates how much food can be prepared at once. This size is ideal for cooking for small to medium-sized gatherings, allowing you to grill several items simultaneously without overcrowding.
BTU output is an essential factor as it reflects the grill’s ability to generate and maintain heat. A higher BTU rating typically means faster cooking times and the ability to reach and maintain high temperatures, which is important for searing meats and achieving desired doneness.
The number of burners allows for greater cooking flexibility, as multiple burners can be used to create different heat zones on the grill. This feature enables cooks to manage various cooking techniques, such as searing, roasting, or even cooking delicate items that require lower heat.
Portability is a significant aspect of medium gas grills; many models come with wheels and a lightweight design, making them easy to transport. This feature is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy grilling on the go.
Additional features like side burners and warming racks enhance the grilling experience, providing more options for cooking side dishes or keeping food warm while other items finish cooking. Temperature gauges are also important as they help in monitoring heat levels accurately, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Medium Gas Grill?
When searching for the best medium gas grill, certain key features are essential to ensure optimal performance and convenience.
- Cooking Surface Area: A medium gas grill typically offers between 400 to 600 square inches of cooking space, making it suitable for small to medium-sized gatherings. This area allows for grilling multiple items simultaneously, such as burgers, hot dogs, and veggies, providing versatility for various cooking needs.
- BTU Output: The British Thermal Units (BTUs) measure the grill’s heating power, with a range of 30,000 to 50,000 BTUs being ideal for medium gas grills. A higher BTU output ensures quick heating and the ability to maintain high temperatures, which is crucial for searing meats and achieving perfect grill marks.
- Build Quality: Look for grills constructed from durable materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty cast aluminum, as these can withstand outdoor conditions and resist rust. A robust build not only enhances longevity but also improves heat retention, leading to more efficient cooking.
- Heat Distribution: Even heat distribution is vital for consistent cooking results, so consider grills with features like stainless steel burners or heat tents. Quality grills often include a design that minimizes hot spots, allowing for more uniform grilling across the surface.
- Temperature Control: Look for grills with adjustable burners and built-in temperature gauges to help you monitor and control cooking temperatures accurately. This feature allows for better cooking precision, whether you’re slow-roasting or searing at high heat.
- Portability: If you plan to move your grill frequently, consider a medium gas grill with wheels or a compact design. Portability makes it easier to transport the grill for tailgating, camping, or simply storing it during the off-season.
- Side Burners: Some medium gas grills come equipped with side burners, providing extra cooking space for sauces, sides, or other dishes. This feature enhances the versatility of the grill and allows for more complex meal preparations without needing to use additional cooking appliances.
- Easy Cleanup: Look for models with removable grease trays and porcelain-coated grates, as these components simplify the cleaning process. A grill designed for easy maintenance helps prolong its lifespan and keeps it looking good after many uses.
- Warranty: A good warranty reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and can provide peace of mind. Look for grills that offer a warranty covering essential components for an extended period, ensuring you are protected against defects or issues.
How Important is the Cooking Surface Area in a Medium Gas Grill?
The cooking surface area in a medium gas grill is crucial for determining the grill’s capacity and versatility.
- Grill Size: A larger cooking surface allows for more food to be grilled simultaneously, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals.
- Heat Distribution: The cooking surface area impacts how evenly the heat is distributed, which is essential for achieving consistent cooking results.
- Cooking Techniques: A spacious surface enables various cooking techniques, such as direct grilling, indirect grilling, and searing, enhancing your culinary options.
- Type of Food: Different types of food require varying amounts of space; for instance, grilling vegetables, burgers, and steaks simultaneously can be facilitated by a larger cooking surface.
- Accessibility: Sufficient cooking space ensures that you can easily flip and move food around without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Grill Size: A larger cooking surface allows for more food to be grilled simultaneously, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals. This is particularly important for those who enjoy entertaining, as a spacious grill can accommodate a variety of food items at once, reducing cooking time and improving efficiency.
Heat Distribution: The cooking surface area impacts how evenly the heat is distributed, which is essential for achieving consistent cooking results. A well-sized grill with an appropriate surface area helps maintain a steady temperature across the entire cooking zone, preventing hot and cold spots that can result in unevenly cooked food.
Cooking Techniques: A spacious surface enables various cooking techniques, such as direct grilling, indirect grilling, and searing, enhancing your culinary options. This versatility is important for both novice and experienced grillers who want to experiment with different styles of cooking and flavor profiles.
Type of Food: Different types of food require varying amounts of space; for instance, grilling vegetables, burgers, and steaks simultaneously can be facilitated by a larger cooking surface. This means that a grill with an adequate cooking area can cater to diverse menus and accommodate a wide range of ingredients.
Accessibility: Sufficient cooking space ensures that you can easily flip and move food around without overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. When food is appropriately spaced, it allows for better airflow and heat circulation, resulting in perfectly grilled dishes.
What Types of Burners Should a Medium Gas Grill Have for Optimal Performance?
The best medium gas grill typically features a combination of burner types to ensure optimal cooking performance.
- Conventional Burners: These are standard burners that provide even heat distribution across the cooking surface. They are essential for everyday grilling and can reach high temperatures quickly, making them ideal for searing meats and achieving grill marks.
- Infrared Burners: Infrared burners offer intense heat directly to the food, allowing for faster cooking and enhanced flavor through caramelization. They are particularly useful for achieving a crisp exterior on meats while keeping the interior moist and tender.
- Side Burners: Often included for versatility, side burners allow for cooking side dishes or sauces while grilling. This feature enhances the grilling experience by providing additional cooking space and convenience.
- Rotisserie Burners: These burners are specifically designed for rotisserie cooking, providing indirect heat for even cooking of larger cuts of meat. This method enhances flavor and tenderness, making it a great addition for those who enjoy roasting.
- Dual-Zone Burners: These burners allow for two different heat levels on the grill at the same time, enabling the user to cook various foods simultaneously. This flexibility is beneficial for grilling delicate items that require lower heat while searing others at a higher temperature.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a Medium Gas Grill Over Other Sizes?
The advantages of choosing a medium gas grill include versatility, efficiency, and ease of use.
- Versatility: A medium gas grill offers a balance between cooking space and portability, making it suitable for various occasions such as family gatherings, backyard barbecues, or even camping trips. It can accommodate a variety of foods, from burgers and hot dogs to larger cuts of meat, providing flexibility in meal preparation.
- Efficiency: This size of grill typically heats up quickly and maintains temperature effectively, allowing for faster cooking times without compromising on flavor. Its moderate size means it can use less fuel than larger grills, making it more economical for regular use.
- Ease of Use: Medium gas grills are often designed with user-friendly features such as easy ignition systems and adjustable heat controls, making them accessible for both novice and experienced grillers. Their manageable size also means easier cleaning and maintenance, as well as simplified storage when not in use.
- Portability: Many medium gas grills are lightweight and compact enough to be easily transported, which is ideal for tailgating, picnics, or outdoor events. This portability ensures that you can enjoy grilled meals wherever you go without the hassle of managing a larger grill setup.
- Space-saving: For those with limited outdoor space, a medium gas grill is an ideal choice, fitting comfortably on patios, balconies, or small backyards. It provides sufficient cooking area without overwhelming the outdoor space, allowing for an enjoyable grilling experience in tighter environments.
Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Medium Gas Grills?
Some of the best brands for medium gas grills include:
- Weber: Renowned for their durability and performance, Weber grills often feature high-quality materials and even heat distribution. Their medium-sized models, like the Spirit II series, come with convenient features such as built-in thermometers and easy-start ignition systems, making grilling effortless.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil is known for providing excellent value for money, especially in their medium gas grill range. Their grills often include innovative technology like TRU-Infrared cooking, which helps eliminate flare-ups and ensures even cooking, making them a great option for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo grills are recognized for their robust construction and ample cooking space. Their medium models typically come with multiple burners and adjustable heat controls, allowing for versatile cooking methods and the ability to prepare various dishes simultaneously.
- Napoleon: Napoleon grills combine high performance with elegant design, offering features like stainless steel construction and efficient heating systems. Their medium gas grills often include advanced features such as infrared side burners and rotisserie kits, appealing to those who enjoy gourmet grilling experiences.
- Broil King: Broil King is celebrated for its powerful grilling capabilities and user-friendly designs. Their medium gas grills often come equipped with heavy-duty cast iron grates that retain heat well, ensuring excellent searing and cooking efficiency, along with ample storage and preparation space.
How Do the Top Brands Compare in Performance and Reliability?
| Brand | Performance | Reliability | Features | User Ratings | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | High heat output and even cooking. Great for searing and grilling. | Durable construction with a 10-year warranty on burners. | Infrared technology for faster heating and flavor enhancement. | 4.5/5 based on 1,200 reviews. | $399 |
| Brand B | Consistent temperature control and quick ignition. Ideal for various cooking methods. | Solid build quality, generally well-reviewed for longevity. | Smart temperature gauge and quick-start ignition system. | 4.3/5 based on 850 reviews. | $349 |
| Brand C | Excellent heat retention and large cooking area for gatherings. | Reputable for long-lasting performance, with customer support options. | Multiple cooking zones and easy-clean grates. | 4.7/5 based on 950 reviews. | $450 |
What Maintenance Practices Can Help Extend the Life of a Medium Gas Grill?
Regular maintenance practices can significantly extend the life of a medium gas grill.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the grill clean is essential for its longevity. This includes brushing the grates after each use to remove food particles and grease, as well as periodically cleaning the entire grill with soap and water to prevent rust and buildup.
- Check for Leaks: Inspecting the gas lines and connections for leaks is crucial for safety and performance. Use a soapy water solution to check for bubbles around connections, which indicate a leak, and ensure all fittings are tight.
- Burner Maintenance: Regularly cleaning and inspecting the burners helps ensure even heating and prevents flare-ups. Remove any blockages from the burner ports using a small brush or a paper clip to keep the flames consistent and effective.
- Covering the Grill: Using a grill cover when the grill is not in use protects it from the elements. This helps prevent rust and damage from rain, snow, and UV rays, keeping the grill in optimal condition for longer.
- Seasoning Grates: Applying a thin layer of oil to the grates before cooking helps prevent food from sticking and reduces the risk of rust. This simple step can enhance the cooking surface and extend the life of the grates.
- Storage in a Dry Place: If possible, store the grill in a dry, sheltered area when not in use. This minimizes exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures, which can cause deterioration over time.
- Regular Inspections: Conducting routine inspections for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or fraying hoses, allows for timely repairs. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant damage and extend the grill’s lifespan.
What Common Problems Do Users Face With Medium Gas Grills and How Can They Be Fixed?
Common problems users face with medium gas grills include uneven heating, gas leaks, and difficulty starting the grill.
- Uneven Heating: Uneven heating is a frequent issue that can result in some areas of the grill being too hot while others remain cool. This can lead to inconsistent cooking results, especially when grilling larger cuts of meat. To fix this, users can rotate their food during cooking, ensure proper airflow, and preheat the grill adequately before use.
- Gas Leaks: Gas leaks can pose a significant safety risk and often occur due to faulty hoses or connections. Users can detect leaks by applying a soap and water solution to the hoses; if bubbles form, a leak is present. To address this, it’s essential to replace damaged hoses and ensure all connections are tight and secure.
- Difficulty Starting the Grill: Many users experience trouble igniting their gas grills, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. This issue may stem from a faulty igniter, a blocked burner, or insufficient gas flow. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the burners and checking the igniter, can help alleviate this problem, along with ensuring the propane tank is full and the valve is open.
- Rust and Corrosion: Medium gas grills can suffer from rust and corrosion, especially if left outside without proper protection. This can affect the grill’s performance and lifespan. To prevent rust, users should clean the grill after each use, apply a protective cover, and store it in a dry area when not in use.
- Flare-Ups: Flare-ups can occur when fat drips onto the burners, causing sudden bursts of flames that can char food and pose a fire risk. To manage flare-ups, users can trim excess fat from meats, use a drip pan, and reduce the heat if flare-ups occur. Additionally, having a spray bottle of water nearby can help control flames quickly.