Before firing up the propane grill for 4th of July, the Propane Gas Association of New England (PGANE) recommend homeowners take the following steps to get the most from their outdoor appliances safely:

1. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions. Whether it’s assembly, use, maintenance, cleaning, or storage, make your grill manufacturer’s instructions your go-to resource for safe grilling.
2. Position the Grill in a Safe Location. Keep your grill outdoors and at least five feet from the house on a level surface that is clear of outdoor furniture, overhead trees, or other potential fire hazards.
3. Check for Leaks. Use a soapy water solution to check connections for leaks. Expanding bubbles indicate a leak. Follow this procedure at the start of each season and every time you replace a cylinder.
4. Follow Proper Lighting Procedures. Follow the manufacturer’s lighting instructions. With all grill models, keep the lid open and don’t lean over the grill when lighting it.
5. Follow Proper Relighting Procedures. If your flame goes out, turn off the gas and refer to your owner’s manual. At a minimum, with all grill models, keep the lid open and wait at least 15 minutes before relighting.
6. Keep Propane Outdoors. Remember that propane tanks should NEVER be stored indoors or in an enclosed area such as a basement, garage or shed.
7. Be Present. Stay close and never leave your grill unattended.

Safety for Kids – The grilling area should also be designated as a “No Play Zone,” keeping kids and pets away from the equipment. To help kids learn about gas grill safety, the Propane Education & Research Council has launched the fun interactive website www.propanekids.com.