Barbecue tips for summer grillers.

• Position: Your Life

Your summer barbecue won't be a flameout if you follow some basic safety tips. "Barbecue grills are designed for outdoor use only," stresses Jason Reynolds, sous chef for the Food Court operated by the Residence Hall Dining Service, Ball State University, Muncie, Ind. "Never barbecue in your trailer, tent, house, garage, or any enclosed area because carbon monoxide may accumulate."

Set up the grill in a well-ventilated area away from buildings, brush, or dry leaves, he advises. Moreover, chefs should consider the grill area sacred ground. "Don't allow anyone to conduct any activities around the grill when it's in use. The grill body is hot during use and will remain hot for some time.... That's why you should always use your grill away from combustible surfaces."

Other general grilling tips include: when using a barbecue, be sure all parts of the unit are firmly in place and the grill is stable; should electrically operated accessories be employed, see that they are properly grounded in accordance with local codes; use long-handled utensils to avoid burns and splatters; wear clothing that does not have hanging shirttails, frills, or apron strings; and use flame...