ATLANTA — Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner Ralph T. Hudgens urges Georgians to keep fire safety in mind when enjoying activities such as grilling this summer.

Hudgens offers the following grilling tips:

• Keep flammable materials such as leaves and other debris away from the grill. Also, keep the grill a safe distance from houses and cars.

• Don’t leave a grill unattended. Keep children and pets away from cooking areas.

• Use only lighter fluid specifically made for starting charcoal fires. Don’t use gasoline; it can explode. Don’t add starter fluid of any kind after charcoals are lit.

• For houses with decks, make sure supporting posts are in good condition. Don’t overload the deck.

• Use outdoor grills where they belong — outdoors. Charcoal fires give off carbon monoxide, which can reach toxic levels in an enclosed space.

• Georgia law states that “No charcoal or liquefied petroleum gas or liquid-fueled burners shall be kindled or maintained on balconies or within 10 feet of combustible patios on ground floors.” That means no cooking is allowed on apartment balconies. Check with your complex to see if they have a common grilling area for residents that is safely away from the residential area.