Explainer: Grilling Season, this weekend marks the unoffiical start of summer, time to fire up the grill

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. (KOAM) - The OBFPD release details on safe grilling for this unofficial start of summer Memorial Day Weekend.

They also share a photo of a grill that obviously wasn't attended well as it melted the siding on a home, which could have burned the entire structure.

Here are six grilling tips for Memorial Day Weekend courtesy Osage Beach Fire Protection District :

1. For propane grills, check the gas tank for leaks before use in the months ahead.

2. Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.

3. Place the grill well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

4. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.

5. If you use starter fluid when charcoal grilling, only use charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire. When you have or are finished grilling, let the coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container.

6. Never leave your grill unattended when in use.

Our friends to the south at the Fort Smith Arkansas Fire Dept. remind, " Stay safe this holiday weekend! If you're grilling, check out these handy safety tips. We love a good cookout as much as anyone, but we'd rather not see you this weekend for a fire call.

Remember: Well-done" should only refer to your burgers, not your backyard or a steak!"

Follow Joplin News First for the latest news and information where you live.

COPYRIGHT 2024 BY KOAM NEWS NOW. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.