Everyone enjoys a good tailgate before the big game. These stadium-side parties include tents, chairs, food, drink and much more. They also typically feature a propane grill for tailgating, one that helps make fantastic food. However, that propane grill can be a safety hazard if it’s not properly cared for.
Have a fun, safe and exciting tailgate experience when you follow these tailgating safety tips:
Heading out for a game is exciting, but don’t let your excitement get in the way of proper preparation. Before you head out, make sure your propane tank is full, and the grill is functioning. If your grill is wobbly or otherwise unstable, it’s unsafe to transport and use at the tailgate. In addition to food, drinks, tents and seating, make sure you have all of the proper safety equipment, including a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and trash bags.
It’s important to take safety precautions as you transport propane. First of all, never transport a grill in a car without first disconnecting the propane tank. Make sure the tank arrives safely by placing it upright and in a secure position. If it falls or jostles en route, you could experience a propane leak.
Also, don’t stick it in the trunk. Instead, place the propane tank on the floor of the backseat or on the seat itself if the floor doesn’t leave enough room. Crack open a back window to ensure ventilation if there is a leak.
So, you’ve finally made it to the stadium. Take extra care as you unload and reconnect your propane tank to the grill. Set up your grilling station as far away as possible from cars and other potentially flammable areas, and make sure to open the grill before you light it. If there is a leak, it means propane has collected under the grill’s hood and could create a combustible situation if not released.
Everyone’s having fun now. Make sure everyone keeps having fun by never leaving your grill unattended. Also, it’s always a good idea to keep children and pets away from the grilling area.
Always clean up your tailgating space before leaving the area. Stray plates, cups, napkins and other garbage can catch fire. It’s also important to let your grill cool down before leaving it unattended. After cooking at temperatures of 400 degrees and higher, it’s important to let that heat dissipate. Open the grill’s hood to speed up the cooling process. If you head back out for more tailgating after the game, the same rules apply — clean up your area and let your grill cool down before heading home. Follow the same propane-transport ideas as listed above.
At the first sign of trouble, call 911. Most stadiums have emergency assistance available nearby. If your grill or propane gets out of control, call in these professionals to take care of it.
Foster Fuels can be your source for high-quality tailgating products. Family-owned since 1921, we offer a full suite of heating and propane services.
Find all you need for a fun, successful tailgate at our Home & Hearth Store. Contact us Today to learn more!
View Comments
My father and brothers will be watching a game in the stadium this weekend. It was reminded here that when planning to watch the game, they need to make sure that they are to unload the propane carefully. Furthermore, it's best to consult experts when dealing with propane.
Your advice to make sure your propane tank is full before leaving for a game is wonderful. When I was in college, we decided to have a tailgate while we waited to be let into the stadium for the first game of the season but we quickly found it's rather hard to do so if your tank has run out of propane. If I feel like grilling at a game again, I'll make sure to keep your tip and my experience in mind and make sure I have a decent supply of propane.
I use propane for grilling and I am planning on having a family party this weekend, so I am glad that I found this article. You make a great point that when using propane gas you should inspect the tank for any leaks. Also, it makes sense that you should regularly watch the grill to make sure that the proper caution is being taken and that the flames are being monitored. I appreciate these tips so that I can keep the party as safe as possible.
I am glad you said that before you head out, make sure your propane tank is full. I get my propane delivered to my door. Thanks for the propane tips for tailgaters.
I think it would be so fun to participate in a tailgate. I think that it's a great thing to remember to watch your grill and not leave it unattended. Too many accidents can occur. Thanks for the heads up.
My dad and brother are planning to have a barbecue at my uncle's home this weekend. It was suggested here that the propane tank should be disconnected with the griller when planning to transport it. Furthermore, it's recommended to consult a trusted propane supplier for more safety tips.
Thanks for the tip to never leave a grill unattended. My wife recently gave me the gift of a grill for my birthday, and I would like to use it this weekend to throw a BBQ with friends. I'll be sure to get propane and handle it safely by never leaving it unattended during the BBQ.