What is your favorite thing to throw on the grill in the summer? Burgers? Hot dogs? Vegetables? Potatoes? While warm weather and summertime grill outs seem to go hand in hand, so do fires from outdoor cooking.

Did you know, according to the National Fire Protection Association, 10,600 fires are reported annually from grilling? These can be extremely damaging and costly especially during the hot and dry summer months.

Learn how you can still enjoy National Grilling Month in July while still protecting the safety of your and your loved ones with these simple tips everyone can observe while grilling:

Fire Hazards in Your Area?

Pull your grill away from any low hanging branches, wooden objects, or other fire-starting hazards. Dry conditions can make these hazards even more flammable than you’d expect, so make sure to clear your cooking area before firing up the grill.

Don’t Leave Your Grill Unattended

Fires can happen quickly, never leave your grill unattended while you have open flames. Grease from your food or a strong gust of wind can quickly make your flames unmanageable. It is also good practice to have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency.

Make Sure Everything is Extinguished Before Walking Away

Whether you are cooking with charcoal or gas, it is important to make sure your fire, or potential for fire, is completely extinguished. Douse your coals with water until they are no longer smoking to make sure that the potential for fire is eliminated. You should also make sure that the gas connection to your grill is turned off or closed before you finish grilling to prevent leaks and sparks from starting a fire.

Clean Out Your Grill Regularly Did you lose part of a hamburger patty while you were grilling?

Maybe a piece of potato slipped through the grates? Were those last steaks you grilled have a high fat content that dripped while they cooked? These small pieces of food can quickly add up and cause a small fire in the base of your grill. Make sure you take the time to regularly clean out the bottom and sides of your grill. It will help you prevent a fire in the future and also help your foods cook more evenly in the long run!