Enjoy Summer

Enjoy your SUMMER without getting burned!!

Summer is a carefree time when most of us are thinking about fun in the sun without families--swimming, barbecuing, camping or boating.  It also is an important time to remember fire safety guidelines that will keep you and your family enjoying the lazy, hazy crazy days of summer.

Can my barbecue grill cause a threat?

Yes!  Keep your grill far from anything that can burn--your house, car or dry vegetation.  Be sure you stay with the grill while it is lit and take care to keep children and pets away from the area.  If you're operating the grill for the cookout, be sure you are wearing a heavy apron and oven mitts to prevent burning yourself.

If you're using a gas grill, always store the fuel container outdoors and turn off the valves when not in use.  Check it frequently for leaks in connections by using a soap and water mixture that will show bubbles if gas escapes.  For charcoal grills, only use starter fluids sparingly, and only use those designed for grilling.  If the fire is too slow, rekindle it with dry kindling and add more charcoal, if necessary.  Don't add liquid fuel to reignite or build up a fire.  Soak the coals with water before you discard them and leave the grill away from the house until completely cool.

What is the safest way to store gasoline?

Store gasoline outside the home, preferably in a locked, detached shed.  Make sure it is kept in a container approved for gasoline storage and is labeled clearly.  Keep the container away from any heat source or flame.

Above information provided by The Professional Insurance Agents Association (107024 11/09 0590261)