Barbecue Safety Tips

For the barbecue fans that do not stand out in the frigid temperatures and howling winds to enjoy the char-broiled flavour of hamburgers and steaks, the season is quickly approaching for you to get started. Now is the time to search out this appliance amongst all the previous fall storage of lawn furniture and equipment in the garage or storage shed.

However, before trying to fire up the barbecue, Chief of Fire Prevention & Public Education, Harry Olivieri offers a few simple tips to make your barbecue season a little safer:

1. Clean all the burner discharge ports with a pipe cleaner.
2. Inspect the burner for any rust perforations.
3. Closely inspect gas supply hoses for cracks and abrasions.
4. Turn the gas supply valve on.
5. Check all the connections with a 50-50 soap/water solution. You don’t want to see bubbles.
6. Never attempt to light the barbecue with the hood down.
7. Do not barbecue in an enclosed area.
8. Burns are very, very serious and painful! Keep a constant eye on little children when near the barbecue.

Olivieri says, “While we do respond to a number of barbecue fires over the year, taking a bit of time for preventative maintenance will most likely reduce the chances of coming to your home.”

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