If you love BBQ and are fixin’ to try your hand at grillin’ the best Q this side of Kansas City (or Memphis, the Carolinas, or Texas whatever your preference), following are a few safety items that will help keep your efforts safe and enjoyable.

Every year thousands of homes catch fire due to unsafe grilling practices and many people are injured from fires and burns from propane explosions and hot grills.

• Before using a gas grill you should always check to be sure the connections are tight and there are no leaks or plugging of the supply lines or burners.
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using the grill.
• Establish a 10 foot safe area and “no play” zone around the grill.
• Keep the top open when lighting a gas grill and keep open until you are sure it is lit.
• Only use starter fluid made for BBQ grills for lighting charcoal.
• Don’t add starter fluid to a charcoal grill after it is lit and burning.
• Stay near the grill while in use — never leave a hot grill unattended.
• Never bring a BBQ grill inside due to fire and carbon monoxide danger.
• Do not move a hot grill.
• When finished grilling, make sure the gas is turned off.
• Be sure the charcoal is out and the grill is cold before allowing children and pets near the grill.