Lindsay Flannigan, Sunnybrook’s Fire Prevention Coordinator, offers some easy tips for a safe BBQ season.
Safety tip #1: Check your propane cylinder for any imperfections that could weaken the structure of the tank and cause a leak, fire or explosion.
Safety tip #2: Be sure that your propane tank is less than 10 years old, the manufacture date is stamped on the collar of the cylinder. It is illegal to fill a propane cylinder that is older than 10 years.
Safety tip #3: For gas barbecues, check all connections are tight BEFORE turning on the gas by dabbing the connections with soapy water and turning on the gas momentarily. Bubbles indicate there is a leak.
Safety tip #4: Wear appropriate barbecue attire including a barbecue apron. Make sure the apron fits snugly so it doesn’t dangle too close to the flames and that the fastenings are tied.
Safety tip #5: Keep a fire extinguisher or water hose at arm’s length.
Safety tip #6: Make sure the grill is set up a minimum of 10 feet away from buildings or other objects which could easily ignite including overhangs, canopies, shrubs and trees. If it is windy, ensure the wind is blowing away from you before you light the barbecue.
Safety tip #7: Use the starter on the barbecue; but if you must light the grill manually, use a barbecue starter or long match and always light the barbecue at arm’s length. When lighting a gas grill, leave the grill hood open until ignition occurs.
Safety tip #8: Never leave a barbecue unattended once it’s lit.
Safety tip #9: NEVER try to move a grill after ignition.
Safety tip #10: When you’ve finished cooking, shut off the gas at the source first to dispel any leftover gas in the hose lines and then shut off the grill itself.
Safety tip #11: Keep an eye on the grill until it has completely cooled.
Safety tip #12: Do not move or cover the barbecue until it has cooled down completely.
