Create A New Style For The Summer

With summer now being in full swing, it can be easy to get caught up in the outdoor fun and let certain chores fall by the wayside. It is even understandable that you want to squeeze every bit of zest out of the season, by making full use of your back yards, patio furniture, and picnic tables.

Every one wants to enjoy their outdoor activities this summer, without ever having to worry about the daily grind. With so many things to do, and so little time in which to do them, who can blame you? While this behavior is normal and is usually harmless, there are problems that can arise if you get so involved in your merry making that you overlook important safety measures.

Some of the things that may pose threats are obvious, such as a grill being placed too close to a wooden deck, low hanging branches, flammable liquids, or other combustibles. This is some thing that any one can see, and every one should be aware of it at all times. To make it safe for you and your family, there should be at least a ten foot of clearance between the grill and any thing that may catch fire. You should also remember to never use a grill indoors or in an enclosed area.

When you are finished grilling with charcoal, one of the things that you can cat see is whether or not the coals are completely dead. In fact, a briquette can remain alive for a long time, and possibly even over night. So, although it may look completely spent and even feel cool to the touch, the inside may still be red hot and ready to start another fire. To be sure, when you are done cooking, you might want to consider soaking the coals in cold water, or putting them in a metal can, or simply place them on a non-flammable surface, such as concrete, until you can safely dispose of it.

Among the other backyard dangers to watch for are pools of water. Even a small amount of stagnant water can make a hospitable breeding ground for mosquitoes, which will lay their eggs in something as tiny as a bottle cap. As every one knows by now, these pests can cause more than irritating itches. They can also spread the deadly West Nile virus. Pay attention to things that collect water, such as garbage cans and lids, buckets, plastic furniture covers, and birdbaths, and dump any standing water that has accumulated in them. Check kids' toys that are lying in your yard as well, as they have many parts that can hold water.

Speaking of pools, if you have one, and you have kids, make sure that there's a fence around it! Even if your kids are older, there may be other ones in the neighborhood who will be tempted by an unfenced pool. Whether it's built-in or above ground, it should be surrounded by a four-sided fence that is at least five feet high, and has a self-latching gate.

Furthermore, never place patio furniture close enough to the fence that it can be used as a step-ladder for getting over the top. Speaking of patio furniture, they can help create an atmosphere on your deck where you can discuss the more pleasant things about summer with you family and friends. No matter how action packed a day is, there is nothing better than relaxing in a comfortable outdoor chair.