Propane Grilling Safety Tips For Spring

Protect yourself, your family, and your property

Did you know that May is National BBQ Month? It makes sense, as Memorial Day is the unofficial start not only to summer, but grilling season. And with Memorial Day just a few short weeks away, many of us are getting our grills ready for all the food we’ll soon be having!

If you grill with propane, you’re not alone – you’re using the most popular fuel for grilling, in fact. Sixty-two percent of households that own a grill use a gas grill!

There are many reasons why propane is so beloved for grilling. The big reason is its ease and convenience. With a charcoal grill, you have to get out the charcoal, build the fire, and wait for it to reach the right temperature before you can grill. And then there’s the mess and hassle that comes with cleaning up after-the-fact.

With propane, you just open the supply from the tank, turn on the grill, and in minutes you’re ready to grill! And when you’re done, a quick cleaning of the grates and turning off the supply valve are all you have to do.

Whether you’re using your propane grill for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, you have to always put propane safety first and foremost. We’ve put together some tips for that are pinnacle to take into account at your next cookout!

Safe Grilling Habits

• Clean your propane grill regularly. Leftover grease is the most common cause of grill fires, causing nearly one in five reported incidents.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand and check it to make sure it’s in good, working order.
• Keep a clear space around your grill, at least five feet from the house, outdoor furniture, trees, bushes and anything else.
• Once you start your grill, never leave it unattended.
• Keep children at least five feet away from the grill at all times
• Don’t use your grill if the starter is broken. Consider buying a grill with an automatic starter.
• Make sure the grill is on a flat, level surface to minimize the risk of tipping.
• Food with lots of fat can cause flare-ups. Use long-handled utensils for grilling and keep grilling gloves or mitts on-hand.
• NEVER use your propane grill indoors or in an enclosed area like a garage or carport. Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas that can be deadly, can build up in these spaces.

PitStop Fuels is dedicated to safe propane delivery and propane tank and equipment installation. Contact us today to learn more.