CURRENT NEWS

June 9, 2008

Taking few safety precautions is the recipe for
successful barbeque season

Ottawa - Whether you have already fired up the grill or are planning soon to do so, the City of Ottawa’s Fire Services Branch is reminding residents that taking a few safety precautions is the recipe in making a successful barbeque season.

“Nothing is better on a hot day than abandoning the kitchen stove and firing up the barbeque,” says Bruce Montone, Deputy Chief of Ottawa’s Fire Services Branch. “ For your safety, ensure your propane barbeque has been cleaned and checked properly, in accordance to the manufacturer’s instructions.”

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority recommends taking the following three-steps to ensure your propane barbeque is clean and safe:

• Clean your burner ports with wire or a pipe cleaner so they are free of rust and debris - including dust, dirt or spider webs.

• Check the hose that leads from the propane supply to the burners. If they are cracking or damaged, replace them.

• Test your propane (fuel) and hose connections for leaks by applying a solution of half water and half soap. If any bubbles appear, this indicates a loose connection or a damaged part. After tightening the connection or replacing damaged part(s), retest by applying the soapy solution.

Remember, barbeques are for outdoor use only. Barbequing in an enclosed space will create dangerous and deadly levels of carbon monoxide - which is a poisonous gas that is both odourless and colourless.

For more propane barbeque safety tips and information, visit the Technical Standards and Safety Authority website at www.tssa.org.

-Courtesy of the City of Ottawa

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