SAN ANTONIO -- When the alarm goes off and the sirens sound at the San Antonio Fire Department over the Fourth of July weekend, there is a chance the fire was caused by a backyard barbecue, said firefighters.

"It’s an outdoor event, people tend to misuse them and put them in the wrong places instead of out in the open," said David Valero of the SAFD. "We have many fires started, 80 percent of them way to close to a house under a tree under eaves of roofs, also on decks or balconies. These are all no-nos."

Fire departments across the country respond to about 5,000 outdoor fires during Independence Day weekend and about 3,000 structure fires. Valero said if you're going to use a charcoal grill, make sure you use starter fluid and not gasoline. If using a gas grill, Valero suggests making sure you check hoses and connections for leaks before you turn up the heat. He also suggests establishing a 6-foot safety zone around the grill.

When the grilling is finished, make sure the coals are completely out before you dispose of them. Additional safety tips can be found on the National Fire Protection Association's Web site.