Safety tips for your propane grill

It’s prime outdoor entertainment season here in Central Delmarva – time to get out and get cooking on your propane grill! Just be sure to do it safely.

Here are some quick reminders for safe propane grill use for your July 4^th celebrations and beyond:

• Stand by your grill – Unattended grills are the source of more cooking fire-related civilian injuries, says the National Fire Protection Association – more than 46 percent.
• Keep it clean – Thoroughly clean your propane grill after every use to avoid grease-burning flare-ups.
• Maintain safe distance – Keep your grill at least five to six feet from the house, on a level surface that is clear of potential fire hazards.
• Do a leak check – Before you light your grill, check it for leaks.
• Be prepared – Keep a fire extinguisher near your grill and make sure everyone knows where it is. Baking soda will also work in a pinch. NEVER try to put out a grease fire with water.
• Keep the outside out – NEVER use your grill indoors! Not only is it a fire hazard, it can also cause a deadly buildup of carbon monoxide inside your home.
• Open up – Keep your propane grill cover open until you’re sure the grill is lit – a closed lid can cause an explosive build-up of propane gas.
• Shut it all down – When you finish cooking, turn off both the burner control and the cylinder valve.
• Keep it straight up – Always store propane cylinders outdoors in their vertical position.
• Move it right – When transporting your tank, put it in a secure, well-ventilated location in your vehicle. Place it upright with the valve off, and take it directly to the refilling location. Do not leave the tank unaccompanied in the vehicle!

Always practice propane safety – in or out of your Delmarva home! Contact Poore’s Propane and Oil today to learn more about propane safety, or to explore our great propane products and services.