Marc Proulx, Public Educator Coordinator of the Winnipeg Fire Department, declared that the biggest error that people make at the beginning of the barbecue season is to light it without having checked it or cleaned it.
“You need to do a Spring cleaning of your propane tank, your connections […]” declared Proulx.
After intervening at someone’s house because of a fire caused by a barbecue fire, he took the opportunity to give some basic tips to BBQ amateurs. Here are all the things you should know before turning on the gas.
1. Cleaning – Is it humid?
Verify the line between the regulator and the burners — humidity can accumulate in the line. It is important to demount the burners, the diffusers and the grills and to do an in-depth cleaning.
2. Vérifier les fuites
Gas leaks can quickly become a real nightmare. Put some soapy water on the connection of your reservoir; if it makes bubbles, it is not sealed properly.
3. Remove any insects
Verify if spiders and insects are blocking any holes, which prevents the propane of circulating properly. It is preferable to clean the grills and the other spaces to eliminate any possible insect carcasses that may have been left behind.
4. Wash off the excess grease
Having excess grease is dangerous when you switch on your BBQ, since it can start a fire when it comes in contact with a flame. It is important to clean the grease found at the bottom of the barbecue before trying to turn it on.
Then, take the time to check that your briquettes are not damaged.
5. Turn it on, but…
Once the BBQ is clean, Mister Proulx states that it is important to turn it on properly:
- Open the cover and leave it open when you turn on the gas; propane is heavier than air and can accumulate in the barbecue and provoke an explosion.
- If it doesn’t turn on, immediately turn the gas off.
- If you are using a match, light it on first, place it in the hole, then open the gas and let it fire up.
- Never bend down towards the BBQ when you’re turning on your barbecue.
Sources :
- CBC News
- Services des incendies de Winnipeg
- Image : CBC News
