Summer Safety: Barbecues

LIGHT YOUR BBQ FIRE IN SAFETY. Every year barbecue grills on residential properties cause more than 1,500 structural fires and 4,200 outdoor fires. Many of these fires occurred when a propane grill was used for the first time after winter storage.

PRE-SEASON CHECK FOR PROPANE BBQ GRILLS

  • Check the tubes that lead into the burner for any blockage from insects or food grease. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear any blockage and push it through to the main part of the burner.
  • Visually inspect the propane hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks. A soap and water solution may be used to test for leaks. Never use a flame to check for gas leaks.
  • Move propane hoses as far as possible from hot surfaces and dripping grease.
  • Visually inspect the propane tank. If it has dents, gouges, bulges, corrosion, leakage, or excessive rust, return the tank to the propane gas distributor.
  • Do not attempt to repair the propane tank valve or the appliance yourself. Have a qualified repairperson make the repairs.
  • Follow the maintenance instructions provided in the grill owner's manual.

PROPANE BBQ GRILLING OPERATIONS

  • Barbecue grills are designed for outdoor use only. Never barbecue in your trailer, tent, house, garage, or any enclosed area as carbon monoxide may accumulate and kill you.
  •  When the propane tank is connected, the grill must be kept outside in a well-ventilated space. When not in use, the propane tank valve must be turned to the OFF or CLOSED position.
  • Position the grill in an open area at least 10 feet away from buildings, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Use barbecue utensils with long handles to avoid burns and splatters.
  • Wear short or tight fitting sleeves and use flame retardant mitts.
  • Have a charged garden hose or bucket of sand available to extinguish any small grill flare-ups.
  • Once lit, never leave a grill unattended.
  • Never store a propane tank indoors or below ground level.
  • The storage of a spare propane cylinder is strongly discouraged. Find a local propane distributor who will exchange an empty tank for a full one on the spot.

TRANSPORTING PROPANE TANKS

Precautions should be taken while transporting propane tanks (whether full or empty). Propane tanks should be secured in an upright position in the back seat of your car, or in the pickup bed of your truck, with transportation plugs on the outlet valve connection. Avoid having other passengers in the car, especially children. Never leave a propane tank unattended in your car.

IT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND ILLEGAL IN NEW YORK CITY TO:

  • store or use a propane grill on the roof of any building.
  • use a charcoal grill on the roof of any building.
  • store or use a propane grill on a residential property with a three or more family residence.
  • store or use a propane grill on the terrace or balcony of an apartment building.

The use of portable outdoor patio fireplaces, patio hearths, fire pits and chimenys are strictly prohibited and illegal in new york city.

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