NORWICH – It is all too common for someone to say they know what they’re doing when they light a fire. The fact is, many do not.

“People need to use common sense,” City of Norwich Fire Chief John Tighe said. Easier said than done.

Here are 10 simple tips to grilling safely that some either may not know, or just may not acknowledge, which can help prevent an accident, and perhaps, save a life.

 1. When the cylinder is refilled, have the supplier check for dents, damage, rust or leaks.  

  2. After filling or exchanging, take the cylinder home immediately. Keep the vehicle ventilated and the cylinder valve closed and capped. 

  3. Always use or store cylinders outdoors in an upright (vertical) position. Do not use, store, or transport cylinders near high temperatures (this includes storing spare cylinders near the grill).

 4. Never leave the grill unattended. Always follow grill manufacturer’s instructions on lighting the grill and make sure the grill top is open when attempting to light the grill.

 5. Before connecting the cylinder to a propane gas grill burner for the first time, use a leak-detection solution (a 50/50 mixture of water and liquid soap) to check connections for tightness. Do not use matches or lighters to check for leaks. 

  6. If you suspect a gas leak, and are able to safely turn off the gas supply valve, do so immediately and call the fire department.

 7. Do not allow children to tamper or play with the cylinder or grill. 

 8. Do not smoke while handling a propane cylinder.