As the summer season winds down and the fall approaches, Park Forest Deputy Fire Chief Mark Cotrano is reminding residents to exercise caution while using their grills. 

Cotrano said with the warm weather still lingering, many people will continue to enjoy outdoor grilling, but it's important to prioritize safety.

"July was the peak month for grill fires, followed by June, May, and August, based on 2017-2021 annual averages, according to the National Fire Protection Association," Cotrano said. "These fires could be avoided if people take the necessary precautions."

Cotrano emphasized the importance of never leaving your grill unattended, especially when children or pets are around. He stressed the need to keep an eye on your grill and have a fire extinguisher nearby that you know how to use. Cotrano also recommended maintaining a three-foot safe zone around your grill to ensure the safety of children and pets from burns, hot surfaces, or tipping.

In terms of cleaning your grill, Cotrano advised cleaning the grill and the tray below it after each use to remove grease that can lead to fire and cause flare-ups and smoke. You can turn the grill on high for 10–15 minutes to burn off grease or scrape residue from the grates. Once the coals have cooled, they should be placed in a metal can with a lid.

"While these may seem like common-sense techniques, a lot of times people become complacent, and accidents happen," Cotrano said. "So it is important for people to take their time and keep safety at the forefront before lighting up the grill."