Explosion Prevention for the BBQ and Grilling Season

When the warm weather returns, many people look forward to grilling and choose propane gas grills. While these grills offer many advantages, propane is a highly combustible hydrocarbon gas which is compressed into a liquid form and placed inside a tank. It can explode in certain conditions, such as in a fire or with a tank leak.

Some 6,500 barbecue grill fires injure Americans each year, accounting for a property loss of over $27 million, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, a division of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The majority of these grill fires result from accidents and explosions related to malfunctioning gas grills.

Now as you set your grill up for the summer is the best time to learn how to properly clean and handle your propane gas tank and grill. The Boston personal injury lawyers at Breakstone, White & Gluck offer these tips to help you grill safely:

• Propane is an odorless gas with an odorant called ethanethiol added to help detect leaks. If you are near a propane tank and smell this gas, leave immediately and call your town’s fire department.
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions for your grill and if you need, contact customer support.
• Transport your propane tank to the refill station or hardware store in a standing position. Use a box or carrying case.
• Drive directly to and from the hardware store or refill facility. Do not make other stops.
• Store the propane gas tank outside your home with the grill and do not take it inside for any reason. This includes not taking it inside your garage or porch or leaving it on a deck attached to your home.
• Operate your propane gas grill and tank as far away from your home as possible.
• Most grills are now made with a safety device that prevents gas flow when the tank is disconnected. But always make sure your propane tank valve is closed when you disconnect to prevent fires and explosions.
• If you are having trouble heating your grill, do not keep raising the temperature. Check your manufacturer’s manual for instructions or call the company’s customer service phone number.
• Have propane gas equipment inspected periodically by a professional for possible leaks or malfunctioning parts. This will help prevent an explosion.
• Check your manufacturer’s manual for cleaning instructions. Turn the grill off and wait until it is cool. Lift the cover, inspect cooking surfaces and remove the cooking grids and spray with mild oven cleaner.

Related:
Propane Safety, National Fire Protection Association
What To Do After An Explosion

The Boston explosion lawyers at Breakstone, White & Gluck have handled catastrophic accidents involving propane gas explosions, home explosions and wrongful death. If you or a loved one has been injured, learn your rights for seeking compensation. For a free legal consultation, contact us today at 800-379-1244 or 617-723-7676 or use our contact form.