Bronson Urges Residents To Keep Safety In Mind As The Summer Barbeque Season Gets Underway
For Information, Contact:
Vicki O'Neil
850-921-8001
May 5, 2008
TALLAHASSEE – Longer days and warmer temperatures go hand in hand with that American favorite, the backyard barbeque. But Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles Bronson is urging people to re-familiarize themselves with some safety precautions before firing up their propane grills. The Department’s Division of Standards, Bureau of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Inspection is responsible for the safety regulation of liquefied petroleum gas wherever it is stored, distributed, transported and used. The popularity of gas fueled grills has tripled over the past decade, but injuries and house fires also increased. According to the National Fire Protection Association, gas fueled grills cause about 2,800 home structure fires each year and about 4,400 home outdoor fires. To help make the summer grilling experience both safe and enjoyable for consumers Bronson, along with the Florida Propane Safety, Education and Research Council, has compiled a list of propane gas grill and cylinder safety tips. The most important thing to remember when cooking with propane or charcoal grills is to cook outdoors where there is plenty of ventilation to avoid house fires and asphyxiation. Some other tips include:
Propane Grill Do's:
- Always read and follow the grill manufacturer's instructions, including lighting instructions and keep written materials and manuals in a safe, accessible place.
- Make sure the propane cylinder has an overfill prevention device (OPD), which has been required since 2002. Consumers with older grills must have it retrofitted with the OPD before refilling can occur.
- When not in use, make sure all grill burner controls are turned off and that the cylinder valve is closed.
- Make sure the grill is shut off and cool to the touch before covering it after use.
- Always use or store cylinders outdoors in an upright, vertical position.
- When you fill or exchange your cylinder, have your supplier check for dents, damage, rust or leaks.
- Check for leaks and loose connections each time before starting a grill by applying a leak detection solution or a mixture of soap and water to the hoses and connections. Escaping gas will create bubbles.
- Use long handled utensils to give the cook plenty of clearance from heat and flames.
- If you experience difficulties in the operation of your gas grill, contact your local propane provider for service.
Propane Grill Don'ts:
- Do not smoke while handling the propane cylinder.
- Never attempt to move a hot grill.
- Do not allow children to tamper or play with the cylinder or grill.
- Do not use, store or transport your cylinder where it would be exposed to high temperatures. (This includes storing spare cylinders under or near the grill.) Once a cylinder is filled, take it home immediately so it isn’t at risk from the heat or an auto accident.
- Never store your cylinder indoors, especially in a garage where temperatures can be high and ignition sources may be present.
- Never leave your grill unattended when in use.
“Barbeques are an American tradition and millions of grills are in use,” Bronson says. “But as with any gas operated device, there’s a list of safety tips people should review every year to prevent a needless tragedy from occurring.”
For a copy of the Department’s free brochure, Safe Cooking with Propane Gas Grills, please contact the Department’s Bureau of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Inspections at 850/921-8001.
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