diff --git a/code/modules/cooking/machines/grill.dm b/code/modules/cooking/machines/grill.dm
index 922f8217919..22553b5b167 100644
--- a/code/modules/cooking/machines/grill.dm
+++ b/code/modules/cooking/machines/grill.dm
@@ -72,7 +72,8 @@
 	for(var/datum/cooking_surface/surface in surfaces)
 		if(surface.on)
 			if(!stored_wood)
-				SEND_SIGNAL(surface.container, COMSIG_COOK_GRILL_NO_FUEL)
+				if(surface.container)
+					SEND_SIGNAL(surface.container, COMSIG_COOK_GRILL_NO_FUEL)
 				surface.turn_off()
 			else
 				stored_wood = max(0, stored_wood - wood_consumption_rate)