Summer is peak season for grilling, but also prime time for grill related accidents, injuries and fires. Stay safe this summer with these tips.

Do:

• Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house - the farther is better. This includes portions attached to your house like carports, garages and porches. DO NOT use underneath wooden overhangs. The fire could flare up into the structure above whether it's charcoal or gas grills.
• Clean your grill regularly. If you allow grease and fat to build up, they provide more fuel for a fire. 
• Always check for gas leaks. Using a solution of half liquid dish soap and half water you can make sure no gas is leaking from your grill.  Rub the solution on your hoses and connections then, turn the gas on. While checking, ensure that the grill lid is open. If the soap forms large bubbles, that's a sign that the hoses have tiny holes or that the connections are not tight enough.
• Keep decorations away from your grill - they do nothing but provide fuel for a fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher within arms distance while grilling. If you don't know how to use it, don't waste time trying to figure it out - just dial 911 and let the fire department do their job. 

Don't:

• NEVER turn on the gas while your grill lid is closed. It can cause gas to build up inside your grill and when you do light it, it can explode in your face. 
• Do NOT Leave a grill unattended. Plan ahead and finish other food prep chores so you can focus on grilling.
• DON'T Overload your grill with food -  fatty meats and too much fat drips on the flames at once, it can cause a large flare-up.
• NEVER Use a grill indoors, even a small one. Not only is it a fire hazard, but grills release carbon monoxide, the deadly colorless, odorless gas.