Covid-19 concerns have people staying home more this summer and they may be looking to grill and enjoy camp fires in their backyards. But in order for people to have an enjoyable backyard experience all summer, it's important to remember safety laws and regulations. \

Before you start your grill for the first time this summer make sure to inspect it for any damage or nests that animals could have left over the winter.

Your grill should be at least 5 feet away from any building or structure while fire pits or rings need to be 25 feet away. Make sure any combustible materials are cleared away from grills or fires.

The only material people are allowed to burn in the City of Erie is dry fire wood.

Darren Hart warns people of the dangers as well as the charges they can receive if these laws are not followed.

"We've definitely had an uptick in burning calls, illegal burning calls in the City of Erie," said Hart. "That means a lot of people are spending time in their backyards. If we have a repeat offender we can charge them through the city's quality of life ticketing."

In talking to Ferrier's True Value Hardware and Fireplace Shoppe, they've scene an increase in sales for grills and fire pits this spring.