Although more fire deaths occur during the winter months, Orangeburg County Fire District Operations Officer Teddy D. Wolfe urges people to be aware that many outdoor summer activities carry potential fire hazards.

The National Association of State Fire Marshals offers the following tips.

-- Barbecue safety

The latest statistics from the National Fire Protection Association show that in 2002, gas and charcoal grills caused 900 structure fires and 3,500 outdoor fires in or on home properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $30 million.

The following tips will help keep grilling safe:

-- When using barbecue grills on decks or patios, be sure to leave sufficient space from siding and eaves.

-- Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.

-- Keep children and pets far away from grills.

-- With charcoal grills, only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit.

-- With gas grills, be sure that the hose connection is tight and check hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.

-- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and have the grill repaired by a professional, if necessary.

-- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that consumers purchase grills and containers with the mark of a nationally-recognized testing laboratory.

-- Camping safety

To have a safe camping trip:

-- Always use a flame retardant tent and set up camp far away from the campfire.

-- Only use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns inside the tent or any other closed space, not liquid-filled heaters or lanterns.

-- Always build your campfire downwind from your tent. Clear all vegetation and dig a pit surrounded by rocks before building your campfire.

-- Store liquid fire starter away from your tent and campfire and only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.

-- Always put out a campfire when going to sleep or leaving the campsite. To extinguish the fire, cover with dirt or pour water over it

-- Fireworks

Fireworks lead to thousands of injuries, requiring emergency room treatment, according to NFPA.

These dazzling devices can burn at temperatures of up to 1,200 F and can cause burns, lacerations, amputations and blindness.

“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a public fireworks display,” Wolfe said.

If you plan to use consumer fireworks, the Office of State Fire Marshal, the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission join in offering the following safety tips to help reduce the chances of a destructive fire or injury:

-- Read and follow the directions on fireworks packages.

-- Make sure adults supervise all use of fireworks. Young children should not play with fireworks. Even sparklers can cause a serious burn injury.

-- Do not point or throw fireworks at people.

-- Use fireworks in an open area away from dry grass and other flammable materials. Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies.

-- Light fireworks one at a time. Do not try to reignite fireworks. Soak fireworks that did not ignite with water. Do not attempt to repair broken fireworks.

-- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

-- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Keep fireworks out of your pockets.

“Summer is often a time when children are left alone, or have limited adult supervision providing an even greater potential for fire and injury,” Wolfe said. “Parents are urged to make sure children know how to call their emergency services number to report a fire or injury, to never touch matches and lighters, and to get out, and stay out if their home does catch fire.”

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