This is it. At long last, it’s finally here. Memorial Day Weekend. This is the weekend for having a barbecue, enjoying the company of friends and family and sitting down to a lovely grilled meal. So let’s not spoil it by creating a pyrotechnic display worthy of the Grucci Brothers and having to call in the local fire department to put out said “display.”

Now, while you’re still sitting inside with your laptop and not outside with a can of lighter fluid in your hand) would be a good time to review some barbecue and grill safety tips.

• Never use the grill if it’s under some sort of structural element or in an enclosed area - garage, awning, carport, etc. Always grill out in the open.
• Check your propane cylinder for signs of rust, corrosion or deterioration. Do it now, while you can still go by a replacement at the DIY store.
• Check that the propane connections are open and unclogged, and check that the fittings between the propane tank and the burners are secure.
• Immediately light the burners once you’ve turned them on; the gas that accumulates from any distraction on your part could be significant, and the flare-up could cause severe burns to anyone standing near by.
• Use an appropriate fire starter to light your barbecue; don’t even think about using gasoline!
• If the grill does catch fire, don’t try to put it out yourself unless it is very very small. The propane tank (if you use one, could easily explode - think of it like a great big grenade - and shrapnel could kill). Call the fire department immediately.

Make your Memorial Day barbecue a memorable one. Safely.