As summer approaches local fire departments want to remind residents to be careful when grilling outside.

1. Maintenance and safety first

• Ensure that your barbecue is sound and in good working order. Make sure the cooking site for the barbecue is flat and is away from sheds, fences, overhanging branches, house siding, eves or deck railing. Never use a grill on an apartment balcony. This can put the entire building at risk to fire.

2. Charcoal briquette barbecues

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Use only sufficient charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue to a depth of about 2 inches. Store extra charcoal in a metal container with a watertight fitted lid. Wet charcoal can spontaneously combust and start a fire.

3. Gas barbecues

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and have the gas grill or gas cylinders repaired by a trained professional. Check connections for leaks. If you suspect a leak to the gas cylinder or pipe, brush soapy water around all joints and watch for bubbles.