It’s a beautiful summer day and you’re spending it on the deck, grilling out with your friends. Sounds relaxing, doesn’t it? It could be – but it could also end in burn injuries and other injuries. In fact, a recent report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission showed that BBQs and other warm-weather activities have led to more than 3.7 million injuries every year – which is about 835,000 more than are experienced in average during winter months.
One of the reasons for this increase in injuries is the use of propane. Many people don’t realize how dangerous it can be, but the good news is that it only takes a few safety measures to greatly increase your safety. Read on to learn how to stay safe and keep your friends and family safe too. If you’ve been injured in a propane accident on someone else’s property, then you may be able to file a premises liability suit. Contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 now for a free legal consultation.
Use a newer propane container
A propane container typically weighs anywhere from four pounds to 40 and it should include an Overfill Protection Device (OPD) to prevent it from being overfilled. Since 1998 every propane tank in this size range has been required to have an OPD. If you have an older tank, look closely for a manufacturing date. If it was before 1998 then you should safely dispose of it and get a new one.
How to safely transport propane cylinders
When transporting a propane cylinder, make sure it’s always in an upright position. It includes a pressure relief valve that will vent the vapor in the event too much pressure builds up in the tank. In typical handling situations, when the cylinder has been properly filled, the pressure relief valve won’t open. You would need to have the vapor inside heated to about 160 F to have the pressure relief valve go off. This only happens if the cylinder is upright.
Inspect your propane equipment
Every year you should take a close look at your propane cylinders and other equipment. You’re looking for any dents, leaks, significant rust, gouges, corrosion, etc. Take a look at your hoses on the grill as well. If they have any type of brittleness, holes, cracks, or leaks then you should take note. Any problem you find with your propane equipment is reason to replace it.
Make sure you’re properly storing your propane cylinders
It’s essential that you’re storing your cylinders correctly. This means that they should always be upright and that there should never be a filled cylinder inside your home. If you have extra cylinders, make sure they’re stored in a cool place. Keep propane cylinders away from a water heater or any other similar type of heat or ignition.
If you were injured in an accident involving propane, and that accident was the result of someone else acting carelessly or recklessly, then you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. Call Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 to learn more.
