Ensure barbecue gas cylinders are stored correctly to avoid accidents this summer.
By Kath Gannaway
SUMMERTIME is barbecue time. It’s the traditional Aussie way – throw another prawn on the barbie, sizzle some sausages or cook up a gourmet feast … relaxed, fun, outdoors eating with family and friends.
But that relaxed, fun time can turn sour if care is not taken.
Victoria’s fire authorities, the MFB and CFA, together with the state’s gas safety watchdog, Energy Safe Victoria (ESV), and the Victorian Adult Burns Service at The Alfred hospital are urging people to do a bit of pre-barbecue homework before striking up the barbie this summer, and to be aware of the potential for accidents.
The organisations warn that in many cases people will be using their barbecues for the first time for several months. Over the winter months things can go wrong and without some simple precautions being taken before appliances are re-lit, family gatherings and other parties can turn into disasters.
The four authorities have recommended that only appliances and gas cylinders that are in good working order should be used.
They also recommend that connections are in good condition, such as ensuring they are tight.
Cylinders should be stored outside and barbecues should never be used inside the house.
Other recommendations include to not leave gas cylinders on the transit hook when a barbecue is in use, to only transport LP gas cylinders in an upright and securely fastened position and to keep barbecues clear of flammable material such as vegetation.
