Propane Grilling Safety Tips

Enjoy summer fun without a trip to the emergency room!

Here in northern Arizona, we’re lucky to be able to grill outdoors for a good portion of the year. But this time of year is special: First, Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer as well as grilling season. Also, May is National Barbecue Month!

Before you get grilling those burgers, dogs, ribs, steaks, or whatever tasty treats you’re having, there’s some work to do.

First, carefully inspect your grill and give it a thorough cleaning. Second, see how much propane is in your BBQ grill’s propane cylinder. If you need propane, you can fill your propane cylinder at one of our 11 propane refill stations located throughout our service area of greater Flagstaff, Prescott, and Williams.

This is also the time to brush up on propane safety, so you can grill worry-free.

Keep safety in mind when grilling

There are a lot of things you need to do to keep yourself, your family, your guests, and your property safe when you’re grilling. There are also things you need to not do. We’ve put together a list for you:

• Clean your propane grill, not just the grates, regularly. Nearly one in five grill fires is caused by leftover grease.
• Keep the grill lid open until you are sure the grill is fully lit.
• If you have a spare propane cylinder, do not store it indoors, or under or near the grill.
• NEVER use your propane BBQ grill indoors or in an enclosed or covered area like a garage or carport. Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, a potentially lethal odorless and colorless gas, can build up.
• The grill needs to be on a flat, level surface to reduce the chance of it tipping.
• The grill must have at least five feet clearance from the house, outdoor furniture, trees, bushes, and anything else.
• Children and pets need to be kept away from the grill.
• NEVER leave a lit grill unattended. Make sure you have everything you need on hand like tongs, mitts, brushes, sauces, food, and platters before you start the grill.
• Don’t use your grill if the igniter is broken. Look into buying a grill with an automatic igniter. We carry a wide range of quality propane BBQ grills that fit all needs and budgets.

Contact us to learn more about our propane tank refill stations, and to find the one nearest you!