Summer Fun Safety Tips!

Summertime is fun time. We all look forward to barbecuing in the backyard, relaxing at the cottage or campsite, and feeling the exhilaration of a boat ride, water slide or roller coaster.

BBQ Safety

Light It Right

Take these steps in the right order when igniting a BBQ:

1. Open the hood.
2. Turn gas release valve on tank.
3. Turn on grill controls or heat settings.
4. Take a step back.
5. Push the igniter button. If there is no igniter button, insert a long match or BBQ lighter through the side burner hole first, then turn on the heat control knob. If the burner does not ignite right away, turn the gas off and wait five minutes, keeping the hood open, before repeating the procedure.

Keep It Safe

Barbecues are approved for outdoor use only. They emit carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can lead to unconsciousness and even death, which means never barbecue in a garage, tent or other enclosed space.

Propane cylinders must not be used or stored inside any structure.

 

Do’s and Don’ts for Handling a BBQ

DO…

• Keep loose clothing away from a hot barbecue.
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
• Turn gas valve off first when finished, then turn off the burner controls, so no gas is left in the connecting hose.
• Allow the BBQ to cool completely before closing the cover.

DO NOT…

• Don’t leave the BBQ unattended when in use.
• Don’t allow grease to build up on the burners or at the base of the barbecue, as this could cause a grease fire
• Don’t throw water on a grease fire – this will only spread the flame.
• Don’t position your barbecue too close to wooden fences or walls. Make sure the area behind your BBQ is free of combustible material, since this is where hot gases escape.

 

Fuels Safety

Treat Gasoline With Extreme Caution

Gasoline is a common fuel around the home and at the cottage during summer. It powers our lawnmowers, chain saws, weed trimmers, outboard motors, All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and more. But, despite its everyday use, do not underestimate the dangers of gasoline. It is an extremely explosive fuel, and must be treated with the utmost care and caution.

 

When running a gas-powered engine:

• Keep a BC Class fire extinguisher handy. Water will only spread the flames of a gasoline-based fire.
• Never work or idle in an enclosed space such as a garage, basement or tent.
• Allow equipment to cool down for a few minutes before refueling.

 

Gasoline Storage

Do not leave gasoline in the basement of your home or in the cottage. Store fuel in approved containers in a detached garage or shed, and well away from heat sources including direct sunlight.

 

Filling Fuel Containers

• Only use fuel containers certified by an accredited certification organization such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) International or the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC).
• Keep well away from sparks or ignition sources.
• Fill only to about 90 per cent of capacity to allow some room for expansion.
• When filling, keep portable containers on the ground, with the dispensing nozzle in full contact with the container to prevent buildup and discharge of static electricity — a possible source of ignition.
• When finished refilling the container, tighten both the fill and vent caps
• Never leave the container in direct sunlight or in the trunk of a car.

 

Fuel Disposal

The best way to dispose of gasoline is to use it up. Small amounts can be left outside to evaporate – leave in an open container away from children and pets.

If gasoline must be discarded, be sure to take it to the hazardous waste disposal centre in your area. Never pour gasoline onto the ground, down sewers or into drains.

 

Boat Refueling Safety Checklist
A few basic fuel safety tips will increase your chances of a problem-free summer on the water. Use this helpful checklist the next time you refuel your boat:

• Have a minimum 5 BC rated fire extinguisher on board.
• Turn off boat engine as well as all auxiliary power sources and pilot lights on gas appliances before refueling.
• Make sure everyone leaves the boat.
• Lift engine cover to check for leaks and odours.
• If safe, turn on and run bilge blower for at least four minutes before starting the engine.
• Keep open flame at least three metres away from fuel source.

 

Cottage Opening Checklist
Getting away from the city is a great way to relax. If you are heading to the cottage this season, take the time to follow simple safety procedures to help you make the most of your vacation.

• Visually inspect the power lines leading into your cottage. Report any damage to your local utility and have it repaired before activating your service.
• Inspect indoor and outdoor wiring for damage from mice and other rodents. Have an electrician repair any damage.
• Have propane appliances like stoves, refrigerators and heaters inspected and repaired (if necessary) by a qualified technician.
• Replace old appliances with new ones that include safety features.
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace the batteries at the start of the season.
• Install a fully charged fire extinguisher in a visible place and make sure everybody knows how to use it.
• Clean up rubbish and fallen leaves and branches.
• Dispose of old cleaning solvents and fuels at a hazardous waste distribution centre.
• Clean up your approved fire pit and cut back any branches or brush that may have grown too close.

 

Campsite Checklist

• Arrive at your campsite in daylight.
• Check the site for glass and sharp objects.
• Check for poison ivy, bees, ants and dead overhanging branches that may fall.
• Ensure that open fires on your campsite are permitted by local or provincial authorities.
• Ensure all propane stoves and heaters are properly connected.
• Keep your campsite tidy to avoid accidents

 

Amusement Ride Safety
TSSA wants you to enjoy all the fun associated with amusement park rides. That’s why they inspect the equipment used in the rides to ensure that the owner or operator follows Ontario’s amusement device safety laws.

Prior to operation in Ontario, all amusement rides require:

• A valid TSSA Operators license
• A valid TSSA Permit
• An inspection by TSSA

But they can’t do it alone. As a rider, you also have a responsibility to ensure your own safety as well as the safety of your family.
So, before you get on that roller coaster, buckle up on that go-kart, or slide down that water slide, follow RideSmart tips (see link below) so that your ride is fun and safe.

 

To learn more safety tips on Portable Propane Heater Safety, Amusement Ride Safety, Backyard Inflatable Bouncers, Water slide Safety, Go-Kart Track safety, and Backyard Renovations please visit SafetyInfo.ca