By RANDY RICHMAN
School’s out for summer! Fire up the grill, open the pool, and safely enjoy your fun and sun!
June begins the peak season for grilling fires. Collectively, gas and solid fuel (charcoal, wood, etc.) grills are involved in about 9,000 home fires annually. Be sure your grill is working properly by checking your propane hoses and regulators for leaks or breaks, as well as any other areas of the grill that might be broken. Keep children, pets and all flammable items at least three feet away, and don’t place the grill 
near buildings or deck railings, or under eaves or low branches. Always keep your gas grill lid open when lighting it and, if the flames go out, turn off all gas and wait 15 minutes before attempting to relight it.
Cooling off in the pool is a great way to beat the summer heat! The best way to stay safe is to enroll in age-appropriate swim classes for you and your family. It is also important to follow these tips when in and around the water:
Always swim with a buddy. Never swim alone!
Never leave a child unattended near water. Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.
If boating, always wear your PFD (personal flotation device).
When out in the sun, be sure to use sunscreen to protect your skin, and stay hydrated with plenty of water!
Should you choose fire, water, or a combination of both to enjoy your summer, be sure to use them both safely and responsibly!
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Randy Richman is a captain in the Brookfield Township Volunteer Fire Department, a part-time Brookfield firefighter and paramedic, and a firefighting instructor.
Do your homework to enjoy summer fun in the sun
