Saving Power to Save Money

Saving Power to Save Money

First Time Using Your New Propane Grill? 3 Tips That Will Help Keep You Safe This Summer

by Cameron Carter

Summer is here. Time to head outdoors and fire up the barbecue. If this will be your first experience with a propane barbecue, there are some things you'll need to know. While propane barbecues are an extremely safe way to cook food, there are still some safety precautions you'll need to take when handling your propane tanks. Here are three important tips that will help keep you safe this summer.

Transport Your Tanks Carefully

When transporting propane tanks, it's important to remember that you're transporting pressurized gas that is highly flammable. However, if you follow the proper safety procedures, you shouldn't have any problems. The first thing you need to know is that your propane tanks need to be kept in a well-ventilated area of your car. The next thing you need to know is that your tank will need to be transported in an upright position. Never tip the tank on its side or it could leak. Finally, never transport your tank in a hot car or locked inside the trunk. The tank could heat up, which could cause an explosion. For more information about propane tanks, visit http://www.nwpropane.net or a similar website.

Store Your Tanks Safely

If you've purchased a spare tank to keep on hand, be sure to store it properly. Propane tanks should never be stored in an enclosed location, such as a storage shed or basement. They should also never be stored near a heat source, such as your barbecue. Instead, store your propane tanks outside on a flat surface that is located far away from heat sources. Before you store your propane tanks, be sure that the release valves are shut tightly and that the cap is on the valve.

Know What to Do If You Smell Gas

When your propane tanks are installed properly, you shouldn't smell any hint of propane while you're cooking. If you do smell propane, that means you have a leak and you need to treat it like an emergency. Immediately turn off your barbecue and put out any flames that might be in the vicinity – including cigarettes. If it's safe to do so, turn the valve on your propane tank to the "off" position. Get yourself, and everyone else, out of the area. Call 911 as soon as possible.

Summer is the best time to gather for backyard barbecues. If you're going to be using your new propane grill for the first time, make sure you follow the safety procedures that came with your grill. In addition, use the tips provided here to keep you and your guests safe this summer.


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About Me

Saving Power to Save Money

Few things are more frustrating than spending your entire summer vacation budget on air conditioning. Unfortunately, if you live in the hotter parts of the country, you might be faced with living in a mega-hot environment or suffering through a few tight budgeting months. I found myself in this same situation a few years ago, so I decided to start working hard to figure out how to conserve power. I worked with my local power company to solve the problem, and I was amazed to see how much of a difference it made with my monthly bills. This blog is all about saving power to save money.