Using A Propane Barbecue Safely
PROPANE BARBECUES
With the Memorial Day Holiday weekend upon us, summer is around the corner and the barbecue season is here. Propane fueled barbecues are quick to light, easy to control, fast, practical and come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. But they all have one thing in common, they need to be maintained, used and operated in a safe, efficient manner.
We at S.I. Premiere Properties want you to enjoy this Memorial Day holiday weekend and would like to pass along a few tips that will make using your propane barbecue a safe and enjoyable experience.
CHECKING THE BARBECUE When assembling a new unit, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If in doubt, take it back to the store or dealer, or call a qualified propane service technician. On all barbecues make certain the burner ports are free of rust or dirt, and that the burner gas supply throat (the tube connecting to the burner) is clear of dust, dirt or cobwebs.
LIGHTING AND STORING YOUR BARBECUE
PROPANE FUEL
CHECKING THE BARBECUE When assembling a new unit, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If in doubt, take it back to the store or dealer, or call a qualified propane service technician. On all barbecues make certain the burner ports are free of rust or dirt, and that the burner gas supply throat (the tube connecting to the burner) is clear of dust, dirt or cobwebs.
Leak test the propane fittings that run from the tank to the barbecue. To do this, make up a solution of dish washing soap and water. One cup of water with a tablespoon of soap will do. With the barbecue connected to the propane cylinder, turn the barbecue valve off and the propane tank cylinder valve on. Spray the soapy solution generously over all hose connections and fittings, and all over the hose. If bubbles appear, and they become larger or more numerous you have a leak. Never check for leaks with an open flame. If you have a leak, turn off the propane cylinder valve and replace the hose and fittings or have them checked and repaired by a qualified propane service technician.
Another item to watch. On many barbecues, the nozzle type fitting on the hose which screws onto the propane cylinder has a rubber "O" ring on the end. If you have this type of barbecue, check that ring every time you connect the hose and fitting to a propane cylinder, and replace the "O" ring if it appears cracked, torn or out of round.When lighting any gas barbecue, have the match or lighter already burning with the barbecue lid open before you turn on the barbecue gas control valve. Never move the barbecue after it has been lit. When finished, turn off both the barbecue gas control valve(s) and the propane cylinder valve. Use gas grills outdoors only. And always store propane cylinders upright and outdoors. Transport and use propane cylinders only in the upright, vertical position. Whenever a propane cylinder is not attached to an appliance, the cylinder valve must be closed and plugged with a POL (Put On Left) plastic plug. Check the tank collar for the date of manufacture. All propane tanks must be inspected and re-certified every twelve years. Treat empty propane tanks with the same care as full ones. Avoid dropping, rough handling, and any contact with sparks or flames.As a liquid, propane is a highly compact fuel. It is this energy compactness that makes propane so efficient to store, transport and use as a pressurized fuel.
LIGHTING AND STORING YOUR BARBECUE
PROPANE FUEL
CHARCOAL BARBECUES
When cooking outdoors, the following procedure should always be taken:
- Keep flammable liquids away from live coals so to avoid explosions and burns.
- Keep children safely away from the barbecue fire.
- Use charcoal electric starter of approved type or chemicals in cake form to start your charcoal fire never use gasoline, naptha or other such flammable materials.
- Never add fire starter after you have started your barbecue to speed a slow or rekindle a dying fire.
- Make sure the barbecue stand is level and steady, keep a water container nearby when the coal is burning.
- When cooking is over, soak the coals so to prevent their re-ignition.
- Never keep damp or wet charcoals in an unventilated area due to the dangers of spontaneous combustion that can result from drying.
- Never dispose of barbecue ashes in combustible containers.
Due to the hazards related with using barbecues in small combustible areas, it is recommended that barbecue’s not be used on or near patios and balconies. Select a safe area away from these locations.
Once again S.I. Premiere Properties wishes everyone a happy and safe Memorial Day!
