The National Fire Protection Association says gas and charcoal grills cause roughly 1,000 home structure fires and 3,500 home outdoor fires across the country every year. Fifty percent of grill fires begin on an exterior balcony or unenclosed porch.With grilling season upon us, McMinnville Firefighters Association suggests the following safety guidelines:• Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.• Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.• Keep children and pets far away from grills. Declare a three-foot “safe zone” around the grill. • With charcoal grills, only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit.