Summer is here and that means it is time to fire up the grill! The Lawhead Team would like to share some helpful safety tips from the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA).

July is the peak month for grill fires. Did you know roughly half of the injuries involving grills are thermal burns?

The NFPA has some grilling safety tips we would like to share:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

Propane Grills: Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. You can check by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose. A leak will release bubbles.

Charcoal Grills:

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoals chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as fuel. If you use starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid.
• When finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.