Grill with care during National Safety Month!

Did you know that an average of 10,200 home fires each year are started by grills?

That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association (and they ought to know). Some other cautionary NFPA statistics: more than 19,000 patients visit the ER each year due to injuries involving grills, including 9,300 thermal burns.

The good news is that most of these dangers are avoidable by taking sensible precautions in your Hudson Valley home and backyard. Since June is National Safety Month – followed by National Grill Month in July – it seems to be the perfect time for a reminder about propane grill safety tips.

Here are some things to keep in mind as we prepare for peak grilling season in the coming weeks.

1. Before using a propane gas grill, check the connection between the tank and the fuel line, and check hoses for cracks, leaks, or damage.
2. Clean your propane grill regularly; leftover grease causes about one in five grill fires – more than any other factor.
3. Keep your grill at least five feet from obstructions, including trees, outdoor furniture, and your house.
4. Keep the grill stable on a flat surface so it can’t be tipped over.
5. Never grill in enclosed areas, where deadly carbon monoxide can accumulate.
6. Keep a fire extinguisher available, and make sure it works!
7. Never leave a grill unattended.
8. Never use a grill if your starter is broken (consider buying a grill with an automatic starter, rather than one with a button starter that can become difficult to push. Contact us to learn more about your options)
9. Always cover the grill to avoid to corroding and rusting the controls and gas line.
10. Take care when grilling high-fat food, which can produce high flames; use long-handled barbecue utensils to avoid burns.
11. Keep your grill instructions and owners manual handy; always follow your manufacturer’s directions.
12. Always store propane cylinders outdoors in their vertical position.
13. When you’re transporting your tank for a refill, place it upright in your car and out of direct sunlight, and make sure the valve is closed. Go straight to the refilling station – don’t leave a tank alone in the vehicle, where temperatures can rise quickly!
14. Always check replacement tanks for dents, rust, or leaks.
15. Never attempt to repair a tank valve or grill yourself – contact Bottini for help.

Need a refill for your propane cylinder? Bottini can help. We provide quick and easy, no-wait portable propane tank fill-ups in our NY/NJ/PA service area. Contact us today to learn more!