BBQ Propane Tank Safety

Gas barbecues can be a fun and convenient way to cook a meal; however, certain safety issues must be addressed when using the propane tank.

Connecticut’s Office of Education and Data Management reports that in 2008 there were 57 serious injuries relating to the improper use of cooking appliances, and seven injuries from gas explosions. Propane gas barbecues can be a fun and convenient way to cook food; however, simple safety precautions must always be followed. Keeping family members safe while using a propane gas barbecue can increase enjoyment, fun and relaxation.

Importance

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that there are approximately 500 fires and 20 injuries received each year from the improper use of propane gas barbecues. Teaching homeowners safety precautions is paramount as propane gas is a highly flammable substance and is extremely dangerous.

Types of Injuries

There are many types of injuries that can be sustained from using a propane barbecue grill. The most common injuries include burns and scalds to fingers, hands and arms. If the propane gas tank explodes, barbecue users can receive third degree burns.

Barbecue Placement

The New York City Fire Department warns residents to not use propane gas barbecues on balconies, terraces or roofs. In most states this is illegal; however, the fire department reports that you can place your family at high risk. Propane gas barbecues need a minimum clearance of 10 feet away from any building and a nearby water source in order to be deemed safe.

Remember that propane gas barbecues need adequate ventilation. Never use a propane gas barbecue inside your home, a garage or other enclosed area as you can increase your chances of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Propane Barbecue Regulator

Monitor the propane gas barbecue at all times to determine if the regulator is in working order. A barbecue’s regulator decides on the appropriate amount of propane gas that will be sent into the barbecue. If you regulator is faulty you could have a low or weak flame even if your propane tank is full. Another danger of a faulty regulator is that it could provide too much compressed gas to the barbecue resulting in a fire or an explosion.

Propane Tank Safety

Only purchase gas from approved compressed gas suppliers as they place their propane in safe and appropriate tanks. Before using your propane tank check to ensure that all hoses and valves are in correct working order and are tight fitting and not demonstrating signs of wear and tear. Remember to turn the propane tank off after barbecuing as any tank that is left on is at a high risk for starting a fire or making the regulator faulty.

When transporting your propane tank, make sure that you do not store it in the trunk of your car. Placing a propane tank in the trunk can allow it to roll around and sustain damage. Place the tank behind the front seat standing up, or having another passenger secure it will keep everyone safe during transportation.

References

• State of Connecticut: 2008 Connecticut Burn Injury Statistics
• New York City Fire Department: Barbecue Safety
• The United States Fire Administration: Cooking Fire Safety