Bar-B-Q Safety

Have a Safe Summer With Your Propane Barbeque (BBQ)

Summer is the optimum time for people to use propane-fuelled appliances such as BBQs. Due to their easy-to-use advantages, these appliances are sometimes taken for granted and are not safety checked or maintained the way they should be.

BBQs, like all propane fuelled appliances, need to be maintained, used and operated in a safe and efficient manner. The Port Alberni Fire Department would like to provide you with some facts about propane and maintenance tips for appliances that use propane as a fuel so you can enjoy a safe summer.

What is Propane Gas?

  • Propane is stored as a liquid under pressure in a sealed cylinder.
  • When released, it comes out of the cylinder as a usable gas.
  • Propane is heavier than air and will flow to the lowest point possible, generally accumulating on the floor.

How Do I Light My BBQ Safely?

  • When lighting your BBQ, always have a match or lighter burning with the lid open before you turn on the gas control valve.
  • After you use your BBQ, turn off the BBQ On/Off valve and the cylinder valve.

Where Should I Locate my BBQ?

  • Your BBQ must be located outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
  • Your BBQ should be level and any combustible material must not be within 3 ft (minimum) of the sides and back and not less than 4 ft (minimum) at the front. Your BBQ must not be located under overhead combustible construction.
  • Never move your BBQ when it is lit.
  • Keep the propane cylinder out of direct sunlight.

How Do I Transport My Propane Cylinder?

  • Keep the cylinder wedged or secured in an upright position.
  • Keep the vehicle trunk or windows open.
  • Ensure the cylinder valve is closed and plugged with a POL (Put on Left) plastic plug.

How Do I Maintain My BBQ?

  • Make sure the burners, ports and gas supply tube, are free of rust, dirt or cobwebs.
  • Leak test all joints and hoses using soapy water.
  • The POL (put on left) fitting must be tight - turn it counter clockwise.
  • Never check for leaks with an open flame.
  • Never use flammable liquids to clean your BBQ.
  • Keep your propane tank in an upright position.

What Do I Do If There Is A Propane Leak or Fire?

  • If safe to do so, turn off the cylinder valve.
  • Tell people to leave the immediate area.
  • Call the fire department at 9-1-1.
  • Eliminate all sources of ignition. (i.e. extinguish open flames. Do Not turn a light switch "On" or "Off").
  • Let the area ventilate for a few minutes.
  • If safe to do so, search out the leak with soapy water, or call a qualified service person.

Propane Fire

  • Tell people to leave the immediate area.
  • Have someone call the fire department at 9-1-1.
  • Set your garden hose to spray water on the cylinder, if it can be done safely.
  • Do not extinguish the flame unless you can safely shut off the cylinder.

If you have any questions or require further information, please call the Port Alberni Fire Department at (250) 724-1351.

If you are reporting a fire - dial 911.