Remember these safety tips before you fire up the grill this spring

You must be alert when manning the barbecue, writes Central York Fire Services Chief

Yorkregion.com
March 23, 2021

With the warmer weather approaching and the buzz of spring in the air, many will soon be ready to get a head start on barbecue season and cook their meals outdoors.

Although many are excited to finally be able to enjoy the warmer weather, it is important to consider the potential dangers of barbecuing and remember to practise barbecue safety at all times.

Before you have your first BBQ of the season, it is important to follow this three-step safety check, recommended by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority:

1. CLEAN

Use a pipe cleaner or wire to make sure the burner ports are free of rust, dust, dirt, spider webs or other debris.

2. CHECK

Examine the hose leading from the fuel supply to the burners, and replace it if it is cracked or damaged.

3. TEST

Examine all fuel and hose connections and test them for leaks by applying a 50/50 solution of water and dish soap. If bubbles appear, tighten the connections and/or replace damaged parts and conduct the test again to double check if your BBQ is safe to use.

If the BBQ passes the three-step check, Central York Fire Services also reminds you to consider the following safety tips before firing up the grill:

• Only use a BBQ outdoors. If used in an enclosed space, you are at risk of being exposed to carbon monoxide, which can lead to serious health effects, or even death.

• Place your BBQ away from combustible roof overhang and low trees. Operate a BBQ at least ten feet away from a combustible wall or a window of a building

• Open the lid before turning on the propane.

• Never move the barbecue while it is lit

• When you’re done, turn off the appliance on-off dial and the valve on the tank.

• Whether you’re grilling on the BBQ, cooking on the stove or campfire, never pour water onto a grease fire. Immediately turn off the burner.

Live in a condo or apartment building?

The Town of Newmarket and Aurora do not have any bylaws in place that prohibit the use of barbecues on apartment or condo balconies.

However, barbecue use may be prohibited by the building owner or property manager. Ensure you have determined what restrictions are in place for your building before lighting up the grill.

If balcony barbecues are allowed by your building, CYFS would like to remind residents to visit TSSA.org for current barbecue safety tips.

Remember to follow all public health guidelines and adhere to the allowed gathering limits in your region in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

For more fire safety tips, visit cyfs.ca or call CYFS at 905-895-9222.