It is cookout season, and a registered dietitian for the Cleveland Clinic said it is important to keep raw meats away from other foods. The reason is to avoid transferring any bacteria.

People should also have a meat thermometer handy to check to make sure everything is cooked properly. Don’t let those burgers sit out too long before you eat them.

A burger that is not completely cooked can create a great area for bacteria to grow.

In general, cooked food should not sit outside for more than an hour on a hot day and no more than two hours at room temperature.