Because more people are grilling and smoking outside as the weather gets warmer, the Boston Fire Department advised locals to take precautions to prevent porch fires.

The department advised locals to never keep propane tanks inside houses or covered porches, to dispose of smoking materials properly, and to avoid using charcoal or propane barbecues on porches, decks, or balconies. Officials pointed out that fires that start on porches have the potential to quickly spread to other structures, endangering both inhabitants and firemen.

To assist avoid residential fires, the agency urged the public to report dangerous situations and practice fire safety.