There is nothing better than a backyard barbeque. Whether you use a gas grill or a charcoal grill, outdoor grilling is a very common outdoor activity. Backyard grilling is an activity to enjoy with family and friends. However, there are a variety of fire hazards that can threaten your cookout. Grill safety will ensure you have a delicious, fun, and safe meal. Code 4 Fire Watch provides gas grill fire safety tips to ensure your cookout is a hit.
Gas Grill Fire Safety
Create a Stable Foundation for the Grill
Propane grills are generally made from stainless steel. Along with the burner components and gas line or tank, they can be heavy. Since propane grills can be heavy and create a lot of heat, they need to be secured from tipping over. Creating a stable foundation to place your grill on is very important. Find a preferably concrete level area or another non-flammable surface. If you need to create an area in your backyard, consider laying concrete pavers to create a grilling station. Additionally, make sure the area is clear of any flammable debris like pine straw, dead grass, leaves, or trash.
Check Gas Lines for Leaks
Making sure there are no gas leaks is one of the most important grilling safety tips. A gas leak can lead to a fire or possible explosion if gas fumes were to ignite. When connecting your propane tank, make sure the connection is firm and secure. Then, take like dish detergent and mix it with water. A good ratio would be 50/50. Spray bottles allow for easy application but a sponge or brush works as well. Turn the propane gas tank on and apply the soapy water mixture to the valve, hose, and regulator. If soap bubbles begin to form, there is a gas leak. Turn the gas tank off and reexamine your gas grill components. Never use a propane tank that is leaking, even if it seems like a very small leak.
Safely Ignite the Grill
Igniting the grill is one of the most dangerous parts. The best way to make sure you are lighting the grill correctly is to refer to your instruction manual. Raise the lid or hood of the grill whenever you are lighting it. Make sure all burners are turned off. Turn on the gas line first and then turn on the first burners. Then, light the grill with the auto-lighter or a long match. Stand as far away from the grill as possible. If the grill does not light quickly, turn the gas off and allow the area to ventilate for a few minutes. Allowing the gas to run for too long can allow propane to accumulate and create a dangerous ignition.
Keep the Grill Clean
Keeping your gas grill clean prevents food debris accumulation. Food debris the has gathered in the grill can potentially ignite later on and create an undesirable fire within the grill. Grease from fatty foods can also accumulate and cause grease fires. Fires caused by grease and fat can burn for an extended time and burn food. By regularly cleaning the grill grates and gas grill burners, you can keep your grill functioning properly and safely.
Make Sure the Gas is Turned Off
Anytime you are not using the grill, verify that the gas is turned off. On propane tanks, make sure the valve is tightly shut. If gas is not fully shut off, it can continue to leak out and accumulate. Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous to not only the operator but also the surrounding area.
Fire Safety Tips for Propane Gas Grills
When taking the necessary precautions, outdoor grilling can be a great activity. By following our gas grill fire safety tips, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Read more about fire safety tips from Code 4 Fire Watch.
