Summer Backyard Safety Tips

The cold weather is finally moving out and it's time to enjoy the warmer weather. Summer in New England is a time for cooking out, relaxing, and enjoying your family and friends. At Doyle Insurance, we want you to enjoy the sun and the fun. Here are some summer backyard safety tips so you can focus on relaxing.

Grilling

Outdoor grilling is great but there are some serious risks. The National Fire Protection Association reports that nearly 9,000 home fires per year involve grills. Here are steps to take for a safer backyard cookout.

• Choose a safe location for your grill. Your grill should be outside to prevent carbon-monoxide buildup. It should be on a level surface more than ten feet away from your home.

• Inspect. If your grill has been out of duty since last summer, do a quick inspection before you fire it up. For gas grills, check your gas cylinder for cracks or holes that could cause leaks.

• Do not leave your grill unattended. Never leave a lit grill unattended.

• Clean your grill. Make sure to routinely clean your grill. If you don't do this, grease and food remnants can build up and become a fire hazard.

Fire Pits

Summer evenings in New England can get a little cool. Fire pits are a great way to extend your outdoor activity. A s'more is a traditional nighttime campfire treat, consisting of a fire-roasted marshmallow and a layer of chocolate sandwiched between two pieces of graham cracker. But make sure you are safe.

• Choose a safe space for your fire pit. Place your fire pit away from your home or low hanging tree branches.

• Watch it. Never leave the fire unattended and make sure there is adult supervision at all times.

• Put it out. Before going back inside for the night - smother the flames with sand.

Enjoy the summer!