Pulverized merchant charcoal contains about 15 per cent of water, and with this amount of moisture will readily ignite a strong spark. ... What makes this material most dangerous is, it takes fire very easily from a strong spark when fine and dry, but does not show itself for several hours, and sometimes days after.

Is it safe to leave coals?

Why You Never Leave a Fire Pit Burning Overnight

Even a small gust of wind can easily spread hot ashes or embers a significant distance. Even without a flame present, hot embers and ashes can ignite nearby flammable materials. What is this? An unattended fire can engulf a home in less than 5 minutes.

Does charcoal keep a fire going?

Every charcoal grill comes with one or two damers. They control and moderate the airflow and keep the fire going. ... More oxygen means more fire. So when you're preheating, open the vents and let the oxygen do it's thing.