Grill Safely This Long Weekend: Vaughan Fire & Rescue Shares BBQ Safety Tips

May 19, 2025 Tiana Squire 0 Comments 2 min read

VAUGHAN – With sunshine and warm weather forecasted for the long weekend, barbecues are firing up across the GTA. But before you flip those burgers, Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) is reminding residents to prioritize safety when grilling — whether you’re using propane or charcoal.

“Barbecuing is a staple of summer gatherings, but safety must always come first,” said officials from VFRS. “A few quick precautions can prevent injuries, fires, or worse.”

Here are some essential BBQ safety tips to keep in mind all season long:

🔥 General BBQ Safety

Only use barbecues outdoors. Never grill in a garage, shed, or enclosed patio — BBQs produce carbon monoxide, an odourless gas that can be deadly.
Inspect burner ports for rust, cobwebs, or debris. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear blockages.
Test for gas leaks with soapy water (never a flame). Brush the solution on hoses and connections and watch for bubbles.
Clean grease traps and remove flammable debris around the grill area.
Barbecue placement matters: Set up away from buildings, fences, and combustibles. Radiant heat can damage siding.
Always open the lid before lighting. If it doesn’t ignite, turn off the gas and wait five minutes before retrying.

🔥 Charcoal Grill Tips

Use only charcoal briquettes and lighting fluid designed for barbecuing.
Let the fluid soak into the briquettes for about 10 minutes before lighting.
Never add lighter fluid after the barbecue has been ignited.
Never use gasoline to start a charcoal grill — it’s highly flammable and extremely dangerous.

🔥 Propane Safety

Transport propane cylinders upright in your vehicle, with the safety valve on top and windows open.
Never leave propane tanks in a hot car — heat can lead to explosion.
Don’t store propane inside homes, garages, or sheds. Propane is heavier than air and can collect at ground level.
Keep cylinders off the ground, upright, and away from heat sources or building exits.