Summer is in full swing and we are ready to fire up the grill for backyard parties. REMSA wants to remind you about some basic safety precautions before you light that charcoal or press that ignition button.
Before Starting Your Barbecue:
Test hoses for leaks
• make sure all control knobs are off
• move barbecue to a well ventilated area
• connect the gas supply to the barbecue and check for leaks
• slowly open propane cylinder valve and apply a soap/water solution to all connections
• check for expanding bubbles, which indicate a leak
• repair all leaks before lighting barbecue
Check for Insect Nests & Spider Webs
• fires can happen if the venturi tubes under the burners become clogged with spider webs or insect nests
• use a flexible brush to clean out the metal tubes
• it is best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning instructions
Replace Worn & Rusted Parts
• this will prevent leaks
Clean Everything Thoroughly
• check inside of barbecue for any blockages and clean them out
Safety Tips While Barbecuing:
Light it Right
• it is always best to follow manufacturer’s instructions for lighting the barbecue
• make sure barbecue is on level ground, and away from windows and anything flammable
• open the lid before turning on the fuel
• make sure gas valve on barbecue is shut off
• open valve on propane tank fully
• light match or depress barbecue igniter
• turn on the gas valve on the barbecue
• make sure the color of the flames are blue with a small yellow tip
Always Barbecue Outside
o barbecues are designed to be operated outside only
o keep barbecue at least 3 feet away from structures
o when the barbecue is not in use, keep it covered and in a shaded area
o do not store propane cylinders indoors; and do not store a spare cylinder under the barbecue
Keep Kids at a Safe Distance
o since surfaces of barbecue are hot and can cause severe burns, make sure to keep kids at a safe distance – a barbecue is not a toy to play with or play around
Never Leave a Barbecue Unattended
o not only can leaving a lit barbecue unattended ruin a dinner, it can be a safety hazard as grease flare-ups can start fires, causing considerable damage
Shutting it Down
o always shut the propane cylinder valve off first to let all propane/natural gas clear from the lines
o make sure to shut off the gas valve at the barbecue once the flames have extinguished
o always close the lid to protect the barbecue from damage
Transporting your Propane Cylinder
o make sure all valves are closed, that the service valve plugs/caps are in place, and that it is in an upright position
o always secure tank in vehicle propane cylinders that are more than 10 years old must be re-certified by an approved facility
Charcoal Grills:
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that every year about 20 deaths and 400 injuries are treated resulting from carbon monoxide poisoning from charcoal grills.
• Due to the production of carbon monoxide when charcoal is burned, charcoal grills should not be used inside homes, vehicles, tents, or campers, even if ventilation is provided. Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, you will not be alerted to the danger until it is too late.
• Never use any flammable liquid other than barbecue starter fluid to start a charcoal barbecue.
• Use the starter fluid sparingly and never put it on an open flame.
• Never add fire starter after you have started your barbecue to speed a slow fire or rekindle a dying fire. The flame can easily flashback along the fluid’s path to the container in your hands.
• Remove the charcoal ashes from the grill and place them into a metal container with a tight-fitting metal lid. Add and mix in water with the ashes, and set aside for several days. Dispose of the mixture in accordance with the Department of Sanitation’s guidelines.
• Remove the ashes only after they are completely cooled and no warm embers remain.
• Always soak coals with water after cooking; they retain their heat for long periods of time.
• Keep damp or wet coals in a well ventilated area. During the drying process, spontaneous combustion can occur in confined areas.
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