Grill safely

If you've been elected to host this year's 4th of July party, you have only a few days left to get everything prepared. Sure, people will probably show up with some food and drinks of their own, but let's face it, it's incumbent upon you to make sure everyone's well fed.

As you endeavor to fulfill that obligation -- and while you rethink making the offer of having the party at your place -- there are steps you should also take to make sure your party is safe. Great ... just one more thing to worry about, right? No at all, because we've already got you covered. A tip of the hat to the folks over at HealthCentral.com for coming up with the following list of grilling do's and don'ts:

1. Be organized
2. Gauge your fuel
3. Direct grilling is a high heat cooking method
4. Keep it clean
5. Keep it lubricated
6. Turn, don't stab
7. Know when to baste
8. Keep it covered
9. Give it a rest
10. Never desert your post

I have to be honest, tips 4 and 5 make me wonder exactly what goes on at a HealthCentral barbecue. Nevertheless, you can also find tips on their site on how to keep your 4th of July party safe and fun for people with allergies. To find out more, click here (lubrication not required).