Enjoy your summer—and help keep it safe for everyone. A little caution goes a long way in preventing accidents.

Grilling Safety

• Use grills outdoors only—never inside a garage, tent, or enclosed space.
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup to prevent flare-ups.
• Place the grill well away from anything that can catch fire, like siding, railings, or overhanging branches — including the overhand of the roof of your house
• Always open the lid before lighting a gas grill.
• Never leave the grill unattended, especially when children or pets are nearby.
• Create a safety zone—keep kids and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.

Reminders: Many people use fire pits, smokers, pizza ovens, turkey fryers, and camp stoves during the summer. Take care to:

• Keep outdoor cooking equipment at least 10 feet from buildings whenever possible.
• Never use gasoline to start a fire.
• Keep children and pets away from hot equipment.
• Allow ashes to cool completely before disposal.

Fire Pits & Backyard Bonfires

These are one of the biggest summer fire hazards.

• Check local regulations before burning. New York State enforces a “burn ban” in March, April, and May each year.
• Keep fires small and attended at all times.
• Burn only clean, dry firewood.
• Fully extinguish the fire before leaving.

Dry Grass & Brush Fires

Outdoor safety is becoming increasingly important even in New York during dry spells.

• Mow before the hottest part of the day if conditions are extremely dry.
• Avoid parking hot vehicles over tall grass.
• Report smoke or unattended fires immediately.
• Observe burn bans when issued.

Campfire Safety

Do you have a summer camp? 

• Build fires only in designated fire rings.
• Keep water and a shovel nearby.
• Drown, stir, and feel the ashes before leaving.
• Never leave a campfire unattended.

Cigarette & Smoking Safety

Summer gatherings often mean more smoking outdoors.

• Use sturdy ashtrays.
• Never discard cigarettes into mulch, flower beds, or dry grass.
• Ensure cigarette butts are completely extinguished.

Outdoor Electrical Safety

Summer brings extension cords and temporary lighting.

• Use outdoor-rated extension cords.
• Don’t overload outlets.
• Keep electrical connections dry.
• Replace damaged cords.

Recreational Vehicle Safety

For your campers and boats and other recreational vehicles:

• Inspect propane systems.
• Carry fire extinguishers.
• Turn off propane before refueling.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in RVs.