Barbecue safety

Barbecue season is here, which means many people will be enjoying cooking and eating food prepared "on the grill." It also means people may be injured and thousands of dollars of property damage may result because of carelessness. Even people who use combustible products safely at the worksite will make mistakes and ignore safety practices at home. Many barbecue fires can be prevented. The following are a few tips for a safe barbecue season:

  1. After purchasing a barbecue grill, make sure manufacturer's directions for assembly and use are followed.
  2. Don't use a barbecue indoors. Fire and carbon monoxide poisoning are a real threat. Keep the barbecue a safe distance (over 3 meters, or 10 feet) from the house.
  3. Keep the propane tank in an upright position. If it's not in an upright position, the relief valve may not work properly. Also, make sure the burner ports are clear of rust and dirt.
  4. Check for leaks by putting a soapy solution on the connection of the tank and hoses. If bubbles are visible, tighten the connection. Don't use the barbecue; if the bubbles continue it is leaking propane. Never use a match to check for leaks.
  5. When lighting a gas barbecue, keep the lid open to avoid gas buildup and light the barbecue as soon as the gas is turned on. Keep your face away from the grill. Make sure the flame is visible from the burner ports.
  6. A barbecue lighter with a long handle is safer to use than matches. It provides the extra reach that reduces the chance of singed hair or a burn to the body.
  7. When finished barbecuing, turn off the burner and the tank valve.
  8. Never use gas or naphtha to light a charcoal barbecue. Always use barbecue lighter fluid and let it soak for five minutes before lighting. Read and follow all directions on the can.
  9. Make sure coals are cool before disposing of them.
  10. Avoid wearing baggy sleeves when cooking over a barbecue. They could catch fire.
  11. Remember, the entire barbecue assembly is hot. Keep children away.

Copyright 1997 Safety Health Publishing Inc.
Permission to print courtesy of Martin Lesperance, a fire fighter/paramedic and author. Visit his Web site at www.safete.com online.