- When finished, put water on coals and store away from the house until they can be removed in a proper container.
- For gas grills, always store the gas cylinder outside, away from structures and always keep the valves turned off when not in use.
- Check for leaks with soap-and-water mixture. If it bubbles, there's a leak.
- Store gasoline outside the home, preferably in a locked detached shed. Store only enough for gas-powered equipment.
- Never use gasoline as stain remover, cleaner or for starting fires. Use only an approved container.
- Avoid parking off-street in tall grass or brush because catalytic converters are extremely hot and can start fires.
- When using portable fans and window air conditioners, avoid using extension cords.
- Test your smoke alarms at home.
Maryland State Police Superintendent David Mitchell said he hopes motorists will remember to wear seat belts.
In July, nine people died in a six-day period and none was wearing a seat belt, Mitchell said. He noted:
- Maryland law requires that children younger than 4, regardless of weight, and those who weigh 40 pounds or less, regardless of age, be in a child safety seat.
- Passengers under 16 must be secured no matter where they sit.
- Drivers and front-seat passengers must be belted.
Troopers are stopping vehicles for seat belt and child safety seat violations and levying fines, police said.
- Before travelers hit the road, the Maryland Community Crime Prevention Institute suggests they make sure their homes look lived in, not empty.
- Leave a key and instructions with a trusted neighbor, advise of departure and return dates.
- Lock all windows and doors, double-checking basement and garage doors.
- Consider getting call forwarding for the phone.
- Cancel newspaper and mail delivery for the time you will be gone.
While on the road:
- Carry little cash and don't "advertise" that you are a tourist.
- When staying overnight, leave no valuables in car.
- Carry a flashlight, fire extinguisher, first aid kit and tools.
In a hotel room:
- Look before opening the door.
- Leave the television on while gone so the room sounds occupied.
- Take cash, keys and credit cards with you or put them in the hotel safe.
