Do you know what happens when you combine fireworks and propane tanks? 

The 4th of July is this weekend, a time for BBQs, outdoor fun, and fireworks. Like many things in life, recreational explosives can be great fun, but they can also be a great health and safety hazard. Like electricity, automobiles, cooking equipment, and power tools, fireworks must be handled correctly and responsibly, especially when combustable materials are nearby.

So what should you know about fireworks and propane tanks and ensuring safety around them for this holiday weekend? 

NEVER shoot off fireworks near gas stations, propane tanks, or any area that stores flammable or explosive material.

Here’s a comprehensive list of additional places to avoid shooting off fireworks as a reminder:

  • Inside a house or any enclosed structure.
  • In a car, or launching from the car
  • Near forested areas
  • Areas with dry foliage
  • Near old wooden structures such as barns, cabins, and sheds
  • Do not use fireworks near active roadways, as they could hit a vehicle
  • In areas near groups of people who are uninvolved and not paying attention

And don’t try to be that guy who grills burgers and sets off Roman candles at the same time. It won’t turn out well. 

Grill safely this Fourth of July.

While we’re on the topic, here are some grilling tips to keep top-of-mind as well:

  • Check gas grills for propane leaks. It’s important to make sure your gas grill isn’t spewing propane. Check the area where the propane tank and the fuel line connect. If it looks like you have a leak, do NOT use the grill or light it. Turn off the gas instead. Also – don’t use a match to check for a propane leak. Just don’t.
  • Use the grill outside. You need to grill in a well-ventilated area. Don’t bring the grill into a place like a garage (or, umm, house) where there isn’t enough ventilation. That’s a fire hazard. Also, carbon monoxide is a thing.
  • Keep the grill at a distance. Make sure your grill is at least three feet away from anything flammable that could go up in flames. Be mindful of how close the grill is to things like outdoor furniture, the house, and so on.
  • Keep the pets and kids away. It’s also important to lay down some ground rules for kids and pets. You don’t want any fingers – or whiskers – to get singed if someone gets too close to the grill. Establish a kid-and-pet-free zone while you’re manning the grill.

For all of your propane delivery and installation needs or any questions you may have about switching to propane, Go PRO and contact our Total Fuel Service team! 
Have A Happy and Safe July 4th!!!

 

Total Fuel Service

 

 

 

 

 

Sources: https://www.onithome.com/blog/insurance/firework-safety-what-you-should-know-before-july-4th/, https://www.nj.com/news/2018/05/7_crazy_ways_people_got_hurt_with_fireworks_last_y.html, https://insurancehub.com/fourth-of-july-safety-guide/