While the saying, “[i]f you cannot stand the heat, get out of the kitchen”, is not really about cooking—it is a true statement for many home cooks. As the temperature rises in the summer, smart cooks tend to move the meal preparation out of the kitchen and to the great outdoors. Barbequing is a great way not only to get dinner made, but also allows for the whole family to spend some quality time together outdoors. While grills are usually safe, they can pose two big accident risks—home fires and serious burns. So before you fire up the barbeque, take a moment to review these important safety tips:

• Use only outside: Regardless of whether you are using a charcoal or propane gas grill—you want to place your grill outside, in an area that is well ventilated. Never use a grill indoors. Improper ventilation of a grill not only increases the chance of a fire, but makes it difficult for the deadly odorless and colorless gas, carbon monoxide to accumulate.

• Allow for adequate space: Since flare-ups can and do happen, you want to keep your grill in a space that is good distance away from anything that is flammable. This includes your home, garage, deck, patio umbrella, and anything low like hanging plants, decorative lights, or tree branches. A minimum of 10 feet is the recommended safe distance. It is also a good idea to position your grill so that it away from any backyard activities.

• Be vigilant: You would not walk away from a hot pan sizzling on the stove. The same advice also holds true for the grill. Do not leave a grill unattended, especially if small children and/or pets are in the vicinity. A small fire can quickly turn into a blaze—so it is important to keep an eye on the grill at all times.

• Keep it clean: After each and every use, make sure to use a grill tool to properly clean the grease and other debris off of your grill grates. Failure to do so can result in accumulated debris, which can start a dangerous grease fire.

• Use the right tools: There is a good reason to use tools specially made for the grill. Grilling tools are made with long handles so that the grill master can keep his or her hands a safe distance from the hot coals or flames.

• Keep a water bottle handy: Since a flare-up can be just a moment away, be prepared with a bottle of water. A few sprays of water can quickly put on a fire—without ruining your dinner. It is also good practice to keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case matters do get out of control. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your fire extinguisher now—because it is too late when you actually need it.

• Call 911: If your grill starts to burn out of control or sets a structure, like a house or garage, ablaze it is important to call 911 as soon as possible. A small fire can quickly turn destructive and even deadly. If in doubt, call the fire department.

If you or a family member was injured in an accident, it is important that you seek the advice of a seasoned Kansas City Injury Attorney. Only an experienced Kansas City Injury Attorney can properly review your case and determine if the wrongdoer can be held accountable. A Kansas City Injury will also be able to make sure that you receive the proper compensation for your injuries. The attorneys at the Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped countless injury victims, in both Kansas and Missouri. Our compassionate team of attorneys will work hard to make sure that justice is served. To schedule an initial consultation with one of our Injury Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673.