The dry Arizona summer heat has rolled in these past few days blistering the pavement. Along with the heat comes the months of events most memorable in the summer time, outdoor cookouts and fireworks. With the rise in popularity of grilling in the upcoming months, some quick tips can help you and the family avoid potential fire hazards.

June and July in fact, are the peak months for summer cookouts and family festivities. They are also the peak months for wildfires and house fires. An increase in house fires occur with the use of recreational fireworks, grilling, outdoor fire pits and dry vegetation. In order to keep safe the National Fire Protection Association and First Alert have suggested quick tips to know before you roast those marshmallows or ignite the grill.

Although you might think preparing to stay safe and avoid wildfires from occurring should be done outside where the bonfire or grill will be, First Alert suggests that you should also focus on house alarms. Tarsila Wey, manager of Brand Marketing at First Alert, suggests checking the batteries every month and to place an alarm near a door that enters the backyard where the grill will be therefore helping to prevent a large fire and alert help quickly if necessary.

Here are some quicktips to remember for safe grilling in the summertime by the National Fire Protection Association:

• Position the grill away from siding, deck railings, and out from under fallen leaves and overhanging branches.
• Place the grill at a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area by declaring a three-foot “safe zone” around the grill.
• Keep the grill clean by removing all grease or fat buildups from the grills and the trays below the grill.
• Use long-handled grilling tools to provide plenty of clearance from heat and flames when flipping burgers.

With the enjoyment of lighting your own fireworks and seeing the colors flash in the sky above your own home, remember these three safety tips before letting the sparks fly:

• Keep the fireworks away from your home and neighbors.
• Keep the fireworks directed away from the crowd.
• Keep fireworks out of the hands of children even after they have been lit.

Whether grilling or lighting fireworks, “always keep a home fire extinguisher on-hand and within easy reach,” Wey says. “Although many people don’t feel comfortable using a traditional extinguisher, many new cans have been invented that are easier to use, like the tundra fire extinguishing spray by First Alert.”

Incase of emergencies, use a garden hose and fire extinguisher to douse the flames. Remember to always call 911 even if the fire seems to be extinguished. The fire department can accurately determine if all sparks and flames have been put out.

As you roast marshmallows, make s’mores and watch the glimmering lights fall from the sky, while listening to the crack and pop of hotdogs roasting on the grill, with smell of burnt wood lifting in the air, try and remember these quick tips in order to make sure your summertime memories can safely last a lifetime.