Summer is here and there is plenty of time left in the grilling season, but residents are encouraged to observe some outdoor cooking safety measures.

Grilling during the warmer months is an enjoyable event, but exercise caution so that the cookout is not memorable for all the wrong reasons. By reviewing grilling safety tips this season homeowners can prevent home grilling fires.

From 2005-2009 U.S. fire departments responded to an average 8,200 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbeques per year, including an average of 3,400 structure fires and 4,800 outside fires.

These fire incidents have resulted in an annual average of 15 civilian deaths, 120 reported civilian injuries, and $75 million in direct property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Other related facts include:

*Five out of every six grills involved in home fires (84 percent) were fueled by gas while 13 percent used charcoal or other solid fuel.

*More than one quarter (29 percent) of the home structure fires involving grills started on a courtyard, terrace or patio.

*In 2009, 17,700 patients went to the emergency room because of injuries involving grills.

*Children under the age of five account for almost one-quarter (22 percent) of all thermal grill burns.

*July is the peak month for grill fires, accounting for 18 percent of all home fires, including both structure and outside fires. June and May follow closely with 14 percent and 13 percent respectively.

Although grilling fires are more common in warmer months, it is important to remember that grilling fires do occur throughout the entire year and simple steps can be taken to avoid them.

NFPA is offers the following safety tips:

*Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.

*The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

*Keep children and pets away from the grilling area.

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

*Never leave your grill unattended.

For those living in multi-family housing (three units or more), Fountain Hills Fire Code prohibits using or storing open flame grills on the balcony or patio, unless at ground level, and have access to an area 10 feet from the structure for cooking. In those instances, an electric grill would be at option.