Now that the summer BBQ season is at full strength, I want to remind everyone to take extra care when barbequing. I hope you will all take the time to read these tips that can prevent future accidents.

•Check your grill thoroughly for leaks, cracks or brittleness.

•Check the tubes leading to the burner regularly for blockages.

•Make sure the grill is at least 10 feet away from your house or garage.

•Store and use your grill on a large flat surface that cannot burn.

•Don't use grills in a garage, porch, deck or balcony.

•Keep children away from fires and grills. It is a good idea to establish a safety zone around the grill. Instruct children to stay outside the zone.

•Have a fire extinguisher or a garden hose close by in case of a fire.

•Before getting a propane cylinder filled, check for any damages to it.

•Never transport or store propane cylinders in the trunk of your car.

•Don't wear loose clothing that might catch fire.

•Use long handled barbecue tools and/or flame resistant mitts.

•Never use any flammable liquid other than a barbecue starter fluid to start or freshen a fire.

•Never pour or squirt starter fluid onto an open flame. The flames can easily flashback along the fluid's path to the container in your hands.

•Keep alcoholic beverages away from the grill, they are flammable.

•Never leave the grill unattended.

•When lighting your propane barbecue, make sure all the connections are secure and open the lid and strike your match or lighter before turning on the gas.

•Always shut off the propane fuel at the grill and at the bottle after you have finished barbecuing.

•Store your BBQ and propane cylinder outdoors.

•Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the safe use, cleaning and maintenance of your BBQ.

•Test your cylinder for leaks on a regular basis. When testing for leaks, never use matches or an open flame. Use soapy water or a leak detector.

•Store your cylinder away from heat and insert a safety plug on the valve.

•Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning and storing instructions.

•Keep your grill clean and free of grease buildup that may lead to a fire.

•Never store liquid or pressurized fuels inside your home and/or near any possible sources of flame.

•For propane grills - turn off the burners. For charcoal grills - close the grill lid. Disconnect the power to electric grills.

•For propane grills - if you can safely reach the tank valve, shut it off.

•If the fire involves the tank, leave it alone, evacuate the area and call the fire department.

•If there is any type of fire that either threatens your personal safety or endangers property, always dial 911 or your fire department.

•Never attempt to extinguish a grease fire with water. It will only cause the flames to flare up. Use an approved portable fire extinguisher.

Have a safe an enjoyable summer.