Dust off your barbecue

Dogs, spiders and mice are all threats to a barbecue that has been hibernating in the backyard over the winter, says Trevor Hannan, general manager of Barbecues Galore, a barbecue specialty store in north Calgary. Dogs can chew through hoses and mice and spiders can take up residence, he explains. Those are just a few of the hazards that make careful maintenance and inspection of a dormant barbecue a necessity.

According to the Fire Commissioner’s Office, there were 141 barbecue-related fires in Alberta between 1998 and 2002. The most common causes were wear-failure and breaks or leaks. Te-Jay Smart, Fire Safety Officer with the Fire Commissioner’s Office, shares these important barbecue safety tips:

•    Inspect hoses and connections for deposits of fuel or grease and ensure they are cleaned up. A buildup of grease or fuel may flare up and cause a fire hazard.

•    Inspect barbecues, cylinders and hoses for blocked connections, corrosion, damage, cracks or wear. Cool temperatures, insects or rodents may damage the appliance when it is not in use. Dispose of damaged or corroded barbecues. Give damaged cylinders or hoses to a propane dealer.

•    Make cleaning, maintenance and regular inspection part of your barbecuing routine.

•    When ready for use, locate your barbecue away from your home, car, dry vegetation, deck rails, wood balconies, and twigs.

•    Trim tree limbs near the barbecue area to prevent the spread of fire from flare-ups of fuel or grease.

•    Always have a fire extinguisher, baking soda and water nearby in case of fire.