July is National Grilling Month and it’s a good time to review some late summer safety tips when using a grill.

Jefferson Fire Chief Jack Williams has some safety reminders when using propane grills.

“If you’re using a propane or gas grill, if it doesn’t light just make sure you leave the lid open for a while and shut the tank off to let that gas dissipate inside the grill. Always try and use the built-in igniter instead of a lighter to reach in and light it.”

As for charcoal grills, Williams recommends using the right kind of lighter fluid to start those kinds of grills. He warns that charcoal grills do not start as quickly as gas grills do. Williams points out that location of where your grill is makes a difference to avoid an out of control fire.

“Especially vinyl siding. We want to make sure you keep your grills well away from that because the radiant heat coming from them can melt those and start a fire. So just make sure they are away from any burnable objects.”

Williams adds if you notice a leak on the gas connection to the grill, shut it off and get it replaced with a new connector.