Summer is a great time to host a backyard party or a barbeque. Here are ways to make it a great experience for all - even your neighbors:

• Be Responsible - Make sure you do not serve alcohol to guests under 21; that you are within your town’s noise ordinance; that your guests don’t speed or park in no-parking zones; and that your party has a manageable amount of guests. If the police are called to your house for any reason, be prepared to cooperate.
• Be Courteous To Your Neighbors - If you can, let your neighbors know ahead of time that you’ll be holding a party. Schedule your party within a reasonable timeframe, and keep the noise down. Make sure your guests do not trespass onto or litter your neighbors property. Be especially considerate to elderly people, those with children and those who work the night-shift.
• Protect Grassy Areas You Do Not Want People To Walk On - When you have a lot of people in your backyard, grass may get trampled. If there are particular parts you do not want to get trampled, cordon them off with string or tape.
• Provide Tables And Seats - Provide tables and seats for your guests. If you don’t provide tables, expect to find dishes and drinks everywhere around your yard. If you don’t have tables and seats, ask your friends or neighbors if you can borrow theirs for your party.
• Keep The Bugs Away - Light citronella candles, tiki torches or install bug-zapping lights. Provide guests with bug spray. Have mesh tents on hand to keep flies and bees off of food.
• Keep The Pool Area Safe - If you have a pool, make sure to lock up and secure the area if it’s not going to be used for the party. If you have a pool party, make sure your guests follow pool safety rules. For more, see Top Ten Tips - Keeping Your Swimming Pool Safe.
• Watch Fires - If you have tiki torches, candles, barbeques or other fires lit, keep an eye out on them. Make sure children stay away from any open flame or heat source, and make sure you’re well-verses in summer fire safety.
• Put Trash Receptacles Around Yard - Make sure you provide plenty of garbage cans for trash. Make sure to include special bins for recyclables and bottles that can be returned for deposit.
• Have An Area For Children To Play - If you’re going to have children at the party, provide a special area for them to congregate and play. Perhaps put out a small table with crafts, or start a ball game. This will keep them in the watchful eyes of parents and guardians, as well as keep the children amused.
• Watch Pets - If you have pets, keep an eye on them as well. Make sure they’re not eating human food, escaping from open gates, being bothered by guests or even bothering the guests.

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