Fire Up The Grill! Published July 4, 2016 By SrA Kristoffer Kaubisch Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Summer is officially here. Outdoor activities are already starting to happen due to the warmer weather. It's time once again to start thinking and practicing grilling safety. Below are some important safety tips and tools to ensure safe practices when grilling. Pick a safe area - Position the grill in a well-ventilated, flat, level surface away from overhangs, deck railings and shrubbery. Keep children and pets away from the grill when in use. Handle charcoal carefully - Never add lighter fluid directly to hot coals since flames could travel up the fluid stream. Instead, place several new briquettes in a metal can and apply lighter fluid. Transfer the briquettes into the pyramid in the grill with pair of long-handled tongs and light with a match. Use proper utensils for safe handling of food and coals. Putting out the fire - Place the cover on the grill, close the vents and allow the coals to burn out completely. Let ashes cool for at least 48 hours, and dispose in a non-combustible container. When using a gas grill, remember to allow it to completely cool before placing the cover over it. Before placing food on grilling surface, preheat the grill. Remove charred food debris to reduce exposure to possible cancer-causing substances formed during high-heat cooking. Avoid fire flare-ups by using lean meats and trimming away all visible fat. Raise the rack to the highest position away from the heat and keep food on one side of the grill and coals or other heat source on the other side. When barbecuing for family or friends, give careful consideration to where the grill will be placed. Make sure children and pets a place to play. Also, don’t cook under any paper decorations. The best way to enjoy your summer outdoor grilling is to take the necessary steps to prevent accidents, which includes maintaining and using your grill safely.