barbecues are great ways to cook food, but they are also highly dangerous if the proper care is not taken. Rthursbys Camping & Leisure Warehouse have compiled the following list of tips you should keep in mind when using your barbecue.

We would like to remind you that the information below is not comprehensive, and RThursbys Camping & Leisure is not liable for any accidents caused as a result of following the safety guide.

BEFORE Starting your barbecue…

• Test hoses for leaks.
  • Make sure all control knobs are off.
  • Move barbecue to a well ventilated area - connect the gas supply to the barbecue and check for leaks.
  • Slowly open propane cylinder valve and apply a soap/water solution to all connections check for expanding bubbles, which indicate a leak.
  • Repair all leaks before lighting barbecue.
    
    
• Check for Insect Nests & Spider Webs. Fires can result from the venturi tubes under the burners becoming clogged with spider webs and insect nests. Use a flexible brush to clean out the metal tubes. It is best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning instructions.
  
• Replace Worn & Rusted Parts, this will prevent leaks and help keep everyone safe while grilling.
  
• Clean Everything Thoroughly.
  
• Check inside of barbecue for any blockages and clean them out.

BBQ SAFETY TIPS while barbequing…

• Light it Right
  • It is always best to follow manufacturer’s instructions for lighting the barbecue.
  • Make sure barbecue is on level ground, and away from windows and anything flammable.
  • Open the lid before turning on the fuel.
  • Make sure gas valve on barbecue is shut off.
  • Open valve on propane tank fully.
  • Light match or depress barbecue igniter.
  • Turn on gas valve on barbecue.
  • Make sure colour of flames are blue with a small yellow tip
    
    
• Always barbecue Outside
  • barbecues are designed to be operated outside only!!!
  • Keep barbecue at least 3 feet away from house or cottage.
  • When barbecue is not in use, keep it covered and in a shaded area.
  • Do not store propane cylinders indoor; and do not store a spare cylinder under the barbecue.
    
    
• Keep Kids at a Safe Distance. Since surfaces of barbecue are hot and can cause severe burns, make sure to keep kids at a safe distance – a barbecue is not a toy to play with or play around.
  
• Never Leave a barbecue Unattended, not only can leaving a lit barbecue unattended ruin a dinner, it can be a safety hazard as grease flare-ups can start fires, causing considerable damage.
  
• Shutting it Down always shut the propane cylinder valve off first to let all propane/natural gas clear from the lines.
  
• Make sure to shut off the gas valve at the barbecue once the flames have extinguished
  always close the lid to protect the barbecue from damage and from rain.
  
  
• Transporting your Propane Cylinder
  • Make sure all valves are closed, that the service valve plugs/caps are in place, and that it is in an upright position
  • Always secure tank in vehicle
  • Propane cylinders that are more than 10 years old must be re-certified by an approved facility