With peak grilling season upon us, use these safe grilling practices to avoid injury and property damage.

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• Grills—and grill fuels—should be placed well away from the home and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• 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 produce bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and 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.
• 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 grill surface and collection trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before igniting it.
• 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 off the grill and gas and wait at least 15 minutes before re-lighting it.
• Try using a charcoal chimney or electric charcoal starter as an alternative to starter fluid.
• 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.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Source: National Fire Protection Association