Gas Grill Safety Tips

With the official start of spring less than a month away, more and more people are going outside to enjoy the warm, sunny weather. And there's no better to way to kick off the spring season than with a good old fashioned grill out. It allows you to soak in the sun while cooking some of your favorite food. Before you go lighting your gas grill, however, there are a few things you should know.

Are Gas Grills Safe To Use?

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 30 people are injured from gas grills each year. Most of these injuries are minor burns, but some are severe burns and even lacerations caused by explosions.

The though of an exploding gas grill might turn some people away, but incidents such as this rarely occur when the device is used properly. If you properly use and maintain your gas grill according to the manufacturer's specifications, you will drastically reduce the chance of explosions. Also, refer to the following safety tips below for more information on how to prevent injuries caused by gas grills.

Gas Grill Maintenance

• Use a waterproof cover to protect your gas grill from rain and the elements. Allowing water to reach your grill leaves to vulnerable to the formation of rust, which can literally eat through metal.
• Try to get into the habit of cleaning the cobwebs off your gas grill on a regular basis. If the flame gets near a cobweb, it may catch fire and spread.
• Check the hose running from the liquid petroleum (LP) to make sure it is secure, functional and contains no visible damage.
• Always store your LP tanks in a vertical, upright position.
• Clean buildups of food particles from the bottom of your gas grill.

Gas Grill Usage

• Always use your gas grill outside in a well-ventilated area (note: an enclosed garage is not considered a well-ventilated area).
• Open the top of your gas grill before turning on the LP.
• Keep your head back and away from the grill when lighting.
• Use a long, narrow grill lighter rather than matches to light your grill.
• Never close the lid of your grill while leaving the LP on.
• Do not attempt to move or handle a damaged LP tank, but instead call either the manufacturing company or the local fire department.

Hopefully, these tips will allow you to enjoy your gas grill this spring without incident.