Wood chips ignite and flare up into open flame inside the smoker.

Safety first: Keep the door closed if a flare‑up occurs to starve the flame of oxygen. Turn off and unplug the smoker if safe to do so.

• Reduce chip quantity: After cooling, remove and reload the tray with a smaller amount of chips per manufacturer guidelines.
• Check tray position: Ensure the tray is not resting directly on the element. Adjust supports if bent.
• Adjust vents: Slightly close intake/exhaust vents to reduce airflow, but do not fully close the exhaust.
• Use larger chips or chunks: Switch to slightly larger chips that smolder rather than ignite easily.