GRILL SAFETY

We got this information from the Upper Midwest Propane Gas Association, but I
thought it had some good information for anyone grilling this July fourth
holiday!

To reduce any risk of an unwanted fire or burns from propane, consumers
should routinely follow some key tips for the safe operation and maintenance
of their grills:


Ventilation

· Always keep the lid open when lighting your grill. Don't close it until
you are sure the grill is lit.
· Keep the grill in a well-ventilated area, at least ten feet away from
the house—and at least three feet away from trees and shrubs.
· Never use a grill indoors or in any unventilated space. This is both a
fire and carbon monoxide poisoning hazard.
· Never cover the bottom of the grill with foil - it can restrict air
circulation.
· Always use and store propane cylinders outdoors in an upright position.
· After filling or exchanging a cylinder, take it home immediately. While
transporting the cylinder, keep your vehicle ventilated and the valve closed
or capped. Do not leave the cylinder in your vehicle.
· Never use, store or transport propane cylinders near high temperatures.


Firing Up The Grill Safely

· Never use matches or lighters to check for leaks. Never use starter fluid
with propane grills.
· Before connecting the cylinder to your grill for the first time, use a
leak detection solution (a 50/50 mixture of water and liquid soap) to check
connections for leaks. Keep all flammable materials away from the grill.
If you detect a leak, immediately turn off gas and do not attempt to light
the grill again until the leak is fixed.
· Before lighting your propane grill for the first time in the spring,
check the cooking grid and warming rack to be sure both are in their proper
place. Clean the grid, the interior of the grill, and the burner (according
to the manufacturer’s instructions) with a wire brush or scraper to remove
any built-up food.
· If the grill does not ignite within ten seconds, turn off the gas, keep
the lid open and wait five minutes before trying again. If the igniter fails
to light the grill after two or three tries, turn off the gas and replace
the igniter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
· Do not smoke while handling a propane cylinder.
· When refilling the cylinder, always have the supplier check for dents,
damage, rust, and leaks.
· Regularly check the tubes that lead into the burner for blockage from
insects or food grease.
· Use a toothpick or wire to clear blockage, pushing it through to the main
part of the burner.
· Never attempt to repair, clean or clear blockages on a hot grill.


General Safety Tips

· Always follow grill manufacturer’s instructions and keep written materials
on hand.
· Designate the grilling area a “No Play Zone,” keeping kids and pets away
from the equipment.
· Always have one person in charge of the fire at all times. Never leave a
hot grill unattended.
· When your grill is not in use, cover the disconnected hose-end fittings
with plastic bags or protective caps to keep them clean.
· Never attempt to repair the tank valve or the appliance yourself. See a
propane gas dealer or a qualified appliance repair person. Be sure to locate
your model number and the manufacturer’s consumer inquiry phone number and
write them on the front page of your manual.
· If you smell gas and you are able to, safely turn off the cylinder vale,
turning it to the right (clockwise). Immediately leave the area and call
911 or your local fire department. Before you use the grill again, have a
qualified service technician inspect your cylinder.


Happy fourth! Be safe!