Barbecue Season is here!

Backyard meals on the barbecue are just one of Canada's summertime passions.
First let's give the barbecue an inspection.

So let's get the grill ready to go! Spend a few minutes on your "Q", and you'll have a cleaner, safer running barbecue, that cooks food more evenly.

You should make a point of doing this every time you change a propane tank as well.

1. Spray soapy water on the connections, and supply lines. If you see bubbles, turn off the tank, and try re-connecting. If it still bubbles, then gas is still leaking. Shut off the tank and get the leaky part replaced.
   
   
2. Remove the grates and lava rocks, and check out the burner. If it looks good visually, then fire it up and make sure that you have an even flame throughout. If not, then replace it. Most burners only last 1 or 2 seasons, depending on how much you use your barbecue.
   
   Since you already have the lava rocks out, why not clean out all the ash and grease that's accumulated at the bottom of the barbecue. While you're cleaning, check the unit for rust, and any signs of deterioration.
   
   
3. Don't forget to check and clean out the venturi tubes that deliver the gas to the burner. If they get plugged up, the gas will get diverted elsewhere, and could pose a hazard.

Whenever you barbecue...

Make sure that the barbecue is at least 5 feet (1.5 meters), or better yet 10 feet (3 meters) from the house, or any other material that could catch fire.

Only open your propane tank a quarter to one-half turn. That's all the gas your barbecue needs to operate, and if you have a problem, then it's much easier to shut off.

Unless you're keen on joining the space program, always open the barbecue lid before you light it. If it doesn't fire up the first time you try it, then shut it down, and try it again in about 5 minutes.

From the time you light the barbecue, till you're finished cooking, stay with your fire. Accidents can happen when you leave a barbecue unattended.

Safety First!

Always make sure that the barbecue is in a safe place, where kids and pets won't touch or bump into it. Keep in mind that the barbecue will still be hot after you finish cooking, and anyone contacting the barbecue could be burned.

If you use a barbecue lighter, make sure you don't leave it lying around where the kids can access it. It won't take long for them to figure out how to use it.

When you're finished barbecuing, always make sure that you not only shut off the barbecue, but shut off the propane tank as well.

Always store propane tanks outside, in a well-ventilated area.

Have a happy healthy fun filled summer.

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Health Admin.