Now that the BBQ season is in full swing, 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.