How can I safely get rid of fire ant mounds in my backyard?
I am a huge fan of Amdro.  I find it works most of the time in a day.  Every now and then I get a mound that needs a second application.   I find good results if I don't mess with the mound and I hit them in the morning.  

Having a pet I do spread some bait outside of his play area even when there are no mounds.  I have even gone into my neighbors lot and hit their mounds (with permission).  I try to get as large of perimeter as possible.