It’s summertime and that means grilling outdoors for many, even during the work week.  The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal released a series of grilling safety tips and is reminding residents to think of safety first in order to prevent incidents leading to fires and serious injuries while cooking with gas grills.  In 2013, in Illinois 91 fires were ignited by grills, according to OSFM data.  The most current report from the National Fire Protection Association, indicates that in U.S. gas grills were involved in an annual average of 7,200 home fires between 2007 and 2011.  An additional average of 1,400 home fires involved the use of charcoal or other solid-fueled grills during the same period.  The OSFM offers the following grill safety tips, such as using any grill only outdoors.  Position grills well away from siding, deck railings, and out from under eaves and tree branches.  Keep children and pets away from the grill area.  Remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill.  Do not apply aerosol sun screen lotion before grilling, as some sun block lotions may not be used near heat or flame.  Never leave the grill unattended.  When done grilling, wet coals and make sure they are completely cool before disposing.  For propane grills, check the gas cylinder hose for leaks before using for the first time each year.  A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will quickly reveal escaping propane by releasing bubbles.  If a gas smell is detected while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department.  Do not attempt to move the grill.   For more information about grilling safety, visit the OSFM’s website at www.sfm.illinois.gov.