Whether using a charcoal or gas grill, things can get pretty hot. If you’re not careful, either you, others or your food can get burned. Here are some tips to help prevent that from happening.

Safety

• Place cooked foods on a clean plate.

• Grill on a flat, level surface in a well-ventilated area.

• Never add lighter fluid directly to hot coals.

• Keep children and pets away from the grill.

• Never leave the grill unattended.

• Make sure that coals are completely cool and then dispose of them in a metal container.

• Clean the grill before using it.

• Don’t use the same tools or dishes for raw and cooked foods.

Tips

• Keep food from sticking by greasing the grate with vegetable oil.

• Turn meat only once on the grill.

• Keep foods spaced out for even cooking.

• Put a light coat of olive oil to vegetables keep them from sticking or drying out.

• Apply rubs gently so you don’t ruin meat fibers or over-season the food.

• Cook ribs for a longer amount of time over lower heat so the meat doesn’t dry out.

• Apply sauces during the last 10 to 30 minutes of cooking.

• Don’t over-marinate — marinate for 30 minutes to two hours.

Basic tools

• Tongs or spatula

• Grilling grid

• Disposable aluminum tray

• Wire grill brush

• Insulated, flame-retardant mitts

• Long-handled tongs