How to make your backyard party-friendly
Summer barbecue time is here

There's nothing quite like a party in the backyard with friends and family sitting out on the deck, taking a dip in the pool or enjoying treats from the grill. However, before inviting everyone to a backyard shindig, you should make sure your backyard and its environs are in good enough condition to handle the stress of guests.

The International Code Council, an organization dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, is urging homeowners to check outdoor areas for potential safety hazards.

Porches, decks, or balconies can collapse if they're old or improperly constructed. Hazards to look for include:

+Porches nailed to buildings instead of attached with anchors or bolts.

+Split or rotting wood.

+Wobbly handrails or guardrails.

+Loose, missing or rusting hardware

+Missing, damaged or loose support beams and planking

+Poor end support of the porch deck, joists or girders

+Swaying or unstable porches.

Building or repairing to code, which requires a building permit and inspection, will help ensure the porch is safe.

Swimming pools should also be ship-shape. Because they can be attractive-and dangerous- to children, surround in-ground and above-ground pools with a fence or other barrier. Protect in

flatable pools, too. The International Building Code requires pools with more than 24 inches of water to have a 4-foot fence or other barrier around it. Gates must be self-closing and selflatching.

Other things to consider when installing a pool include building permit and zoning requirements, electrical clearances and utility easements, and insurance policies.

Grills, meanwhile, also need your attention before firing them up and tossing on those burgers. The most common grilling hazards are open flames and heat generated in grill bases that can be transferred to a porch or home, causing a fire.

When grilling:

+Cook away from siding, deck railings, eaves and branches

+Periodically remove grease

+Use proper starter fluid and store it safely

+Check propane hoses for leaks

+Do not move hot grills

+Dispose of charcoal properly

The 2003 International Fire Code prohibits the use of charcoal and gas grills on combustible porches or within 10 feet of combustible construction. Contact the local building or fire department to see what applies in your community.

More safety tips are available online at www.iccsafe.org/ safety.

This story provided by StatePoint Media.