If you’re grilling for Memorial Day, be sure to stay safe

Summer holidays get many of us thinking about a big barbecue and some time outdoors enjoying the sun.

Taking care of a community grill is much like taking care of your own barbecue. As a griller, you have a responsibility to take care of the equipment too and protect your neighbors.

» Clean the grill first. Before you start barbecuing, take two minutes and wipe down the grates to be sure they are free of debris and the last griller’s leftovers.

» Getting the grill fire going. Read the instructions on the grill and use the right tools to light the barbecue. If you are building a fire in a charcoal grill and using an accelerant, be especially careful as these can cause flare-ups.

» Keep a water bottle closeby. It’s best to keep a water bottle or baking soda nearby when grilling, in case something catches fire or the grill gets too hot. A small squirt bottle of water will keep this in check and prevent burned food.

» Keep an eye out and protect yourself too. Never, ever leave your grill unattended while you are cooking. Hot grills can flare up in seconds.

» Clean up after yourself. When you are done grilling, take a minute to wipe down the grill and remove any food debris left there. You can use a piece of tin foil and the tongs or a grill brush to clean the hot grill.

» Turn off the gas or extinguish the fire when you are done. This sounds simple but you would be surprised how many people forget to turn off the gas or don’t close the valve completely on a propane grill. Not only does this waste gas; it’s a serious safety hazard. Double check the valve before heading back inside. If you’re using a charcoal barbecue, you must make sure that flames are completely extinguished.

Tom Simplot is president and CEO of the Arizona Multihousing Association.