If the grill has been stored for a period of time please read our maintenance posts especially the one on cleaning burners (checking for blockages) and checking hoses for signs of wear.
Grill Safety
If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply immediately. Extinguish any open flames. Check for gas leaks as described in our Leak Testing post. If odor persists, contact your dealer or gas supplier immediately.
- Never attach or disconnect a LP cylinder, or move or alter gas fittings when the grill is in operation or is hot.
- Never use an LP cylinder if it shows signs of: dents, gouges, bulges, fire damage, corrosion, leakage, excessive rust or other forms of visual external damage; it may be hazardous and should be checked by a liquid propane supplier.
When lighting a gas grill, always keep the lid open to prevent a flash off from gas build-up.
- Do not lean over the grill when igniting the burners or cooking.
- If a burner doesn’t ignite, turn off the gas. Keep the grill lid open and wait five minutes before trying to light it again.
- If the burners go out during operation, turn all gas valves to OFF. Open the lid and wait five minutes before attempting to relight, using lighting instructions.
Keep children away from the hot grill, this also includes making sure children can’t grab utensils that are being used on the grill and may be hot or sharp.
- The grill should have an adult by it at all times while it is in use, and while it is cooling.
- The gas bottle should be removed from the grill when it is no longer in use; this prevents children accidentally turning controls on.
- When changing gas bottles ensure that the valves on both bottles are turned to the off position
- Do not attempt to move the grill while it is either still in use or still hot
To put out flare-ups, either raise the grid the food is on, or spread the coals out, or adjust the controls to lower the temperature.
- If you must douse the flames with a light spritz of water, first remove the food from the grill.
- Use baking soda to control a grease fire and have a fire extinguisher handy. A bucket of sand or a garden hose should be near if you don’t have a commercial extinguisher.
- Do not use aerosols around the grill, as these may be flammable
Should electrically operated accessories (i.e. rotisseries, etc.) be used, be sure they are properly grounded in accordance with local codes. Electrical cords should be placed away from walkways.
- Use long-handled grill utensils to avoid burns and splatters.
- Do not wear loose or baggy clothing, wear a non flammable apron
Placement of the grill:
The grill should be sited on a stable, even surface, that is well ventilated and not underneath hanging branches or a roof, where heat and carbon monoxide fumes can build to dangerous levels,
It should be sited well away from the area in which children are going to play, so that it cannot be knocked over or run into by overexcited children.
Grills are designed for outdoor use only. Never grill in your trailer, tent, house, garage, or any enclosed area because carbon monoxide may accumulate and kill you.
Set up grill in an open area away from buildings, overhead combustible surfaces, dry leaves or brush. Be sure to avoid high traffic areas and always Grill in a well-ventilated area. Be aware of the wind blown sparks.
When using a grill be sure all parts of the unit are firmly in place and the grill is stable.
David B. February 11th, 2010
Posted In: BBQ Maintenance