Know The Drill Before You Grill This Long Weekend

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has today reminded local residents to ensure there gas barbeques are safe before firing them up for use during the NRL Grand Final this October long weekend.

“I know that many people will be switching on their gas barbeques this long weekend with the NRL Grand Final Panthers vs Souths on in the background and having a great time which is a great Aussie tradition for many local families," Mr Ward said.

“So, to stay safe, we want local residents to ‘know the drill before you grill’.

“Get into the habit of doing a soapy water check. Squirt your gas connection with soapy water to make sure there are no leaks. If no bubbles appear, you are safe to use,” he said.

Follow these simple steps every time you use your barbecue:

1. Inspect the hose for signs of perishing or cracking – if the hose is cracked or perished, don’t use the BBQ until the hose has been replaced.
2. Use a squeezy bottle filled with soapy water to check the connection for gas leaks (use dishwashing liquid and water). Squirt the connection with the suds from the soapy water solution.
   – Bubbles will form if gas is escaping.
   – Leak-test the connection to the cylinder every time you connect it or change cylinders.
   – Serious leaks are common and can be very dangerous.
   – Check and leak test the connection every time you barbecue.
3. If no bubbles appear, you are safe to cook.

What to do if you see bubbles:

• Switch off the gas immediately
• Re-check the hose to make sure it hasn’t perished
• Re-check connections to make sure they are tight – get into the habit of doing this regularly
• Check that the O ring on the connection hasn’t perished
• Check the gas cylinder for damage
  – Note: you can’t refill an LP Gas cylinder if it hasn’t been tested for over 10 years, or if the cylinder has been damaged. Always exchange LP Gas cylinders at a reputable supplier.
• Re-test with soapy water, and if bubbles still form turn off the gas. Your LP Gas cylinder or hose may need replacing.

“Remember to close the valves on LP Gas cylinders whenever they are not in use, particularly when they are being transported.

“When transporting an LP Gas cylinder, ensure that it is securely restrained in your vehicle – use a sturdy container, such as a milk crate, to keep the cylinder upright and steady. Make sure you have good ventilation in your vehicle.

“Clean your charcoal and gas grills regularly and make sure it is located at least 10 metres away from your house or unit.

“I hope everybody has a relaxing and safe long weekend and enjoys the Grand Final on Sunday night,” Mr Ward said.