There’s nothing like outdoor grilling.

It’s one of the most popular ways to cook food. But, a grill placed too close to anything that can burn is a fire hazard. They can be very hot, causing burn injuries.

Follow these simple tips and you will be on the way to safe grilling.

• Only use your grill outside. Keep it at least 3 feet from house siding, deck railings, eaves and tree branches.
• Keep a 3-foot safe zone around your grill. This will help to keep children and pets safe.
• Open your gas grill before lighting.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord labelled for outdoor use.
• Keep an eye on your grill, fire pit or porch torches. Never leave them unattended while lit.
• Clean your grill after each use. This removes grease that can cause a fire.
• Place the coals from your grill in a metal can with a lid once they have cooled.

Propane Grill Tips:

Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.

Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill. If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting it.