Whether you are in your backyard or at the campground this summer, it is important to take precautionary steps when dealing with fire, says Red River Mutual loss prevention officer Lonnie Peters Loewen.

Though barbecue fires do not happen often, they can cause serious damage. Peters Loewen advises the public to keep these tips in mind: store barbecues away from flammable objects and in a place with plenty of ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup; clean the bottom drip tray often; do not pour water on a grease fire, because that only provokes the flames more - rather, close the hood of the barbecue and shut the fuel source off until the fire settles down, and; check the hose of the propane tank for leaks or brittleness at least once a year.

Fire pits are also something to watch out for, said Peters Loewen. He recommends setting the fire pit at least 10 feet away from anything the fire could potentially spread to, including dry branches, fences and houses. He notes that clean and dry fire wood is the best to use, compared to scrap wood that has paint or chemical on it. This sort of kindling can ignite sparks, leading to larger fires.

By following these tips you can ensure you have a safer and more enjoyable summer.