Precautions to Take While Grilling

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

Summer is typically filled with cookouts, BBQs, and family get-togethers, and while this is fun it also brings the possibility of fire hazards. In order to stay safe while still having fun, we’ve created a list of precautions to take while grilling.

Precautions to take while grilling with propane:

• Stay alert when grilling. Avoid grilling when you are tired or have consumed too much alcohol.
• Do not leave your grill unattended.
• Keep the grill in a place that is free from flammable items and away from porch rails, and low lying branches.
• Keep children and pets as far away from the grill as possible
• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year**
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before igniting.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately move away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.
• If the flames go out for any reason, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 15 minutes before re-lighting it.
• Keep your grill clean by regularly removing grease or fat buildup from the grates and trays below.

**A light soap & water solution applied to the hose is a great way to check for leaks. You can often smell a propane leak, but propane will also release bubbles when the soap and water solution is applied. If you detect a leak, turn the gas tank and grill off. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.