Make Gas Grill Safety a Priority
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that approximately 30 people each year suffer injuries due to gas grill fires and explosions. The liquid petroleum (LP) gas used by these grills is highly flammable. The fires and explosions resulting in injuries typically occur just after attaching a fresh propane tank, or when the grill is first used after a long period of non-use. To help ensure that your family experiences a happy and safe grilling season this year, you should routinely perform the following safety checks:
- Refer to the manufacturer's documentation for your grill.The gas grill owner manual will include tips and safety procedures that may be specific to your model.
- Verify that the gas is turned off before starting any work on your grill.
- Thoroughly clean your grill, removing food grease and particles.
Check the tubes that lead into the burners for any blockages. Spiders and insects may have taken up residence in this area during the off season. - Check the hoses leading from the propane tank for any signs of cracking, holes, or leaks. If a hose appears to be damaged or brittle, obtain a replacement gas grill hose before using your grill.
- While inspecting the hoses, ensure that they are not pinched or kinked.
- Ensure that the hoses are not resting or near any hot surfaces. Ensure that the hose is not resting against the underside of your grill.
- Gas grill burners should be replaced if they appear to be deteriorating from long term use or rust.
- Check for gas leaks.
The manufacturers instructions will offer guidance for this step.
You can pour a soapy solution over your hose connectors and look for signs of any bubbling that would indicate a leak existed.
If you suspect a leak, do not attempt to light your grill. Keep open flames and cigarettes away from any suspected leak.
Keep spare liquid propane tanks stored away from your grill.
In the event of a fire, you don't want to risk an explosion of a secondary tank.
Make sure that you never use a gas grill indoors, or in an enclosed area such as a garage. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home and other surfaces that could catch fire. When transporting propane tanks, always ensure that they remain in an upright position. Never leave a full propane tank in your car. As the temperature rises inside your car, additional pressure builds inside the tank. Gas grill covers should be used to protect your grill from the elements and reduce the chances of premature rusting.
If you suspect a leak, do not attempt to light your grill. Keep open flames and cigarettes away from any suspected leak.
Keep spare liquid propane tanks stored away from your grill.
In the event of a fire, you don't want to risk an explosion of a secondary tank.
Make sure that you never use a gas grill indoors, or in an enclosed area such as a garage. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home and other surfaces that could catch fire. When transporting propane tanks, always ensure that they remain in an upright position. Never leave a full propane tank in your car. As the temperature rises inside your car, additional pressure builds inside the tank. Gas grill covers should be used to protect your grill from the elements and reduce the chances of premature rusting.
Performing these simple safety checks on a regular basis will help to ensure that your back yard barbeque is a success.