Since 1995, sales of outdoor gas/propane grills have outpaced sales of traditional charcoal grills, according to Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto. While gas grills have become more high-tech since their introduction and offer more features...some even have a built-in sink...there are some basic safety tips that should be observed by everyone who uses a propane/gas grill.

"Gas grills should be used only outdoors away from buildings," Supervisor Venditto cautioned. "Store cylinders somewhere other than your home; a detached garage or shed is recommended. The reason is that propane gas is highly volatile and spreads rapidly. Also, because it is heavier than air, if spilled, it can remain for long periods of time in pockets of unventilated spaces. Whenever you transport, store or use a gas cylinder, make sure it is always in an upright position.

"When connecting the cylinder to the grill, position it so that the connection to the regulator can be made without kinking the hose. Make sure all connections are tight. A good way to test the connections is to apply a soapy solution to them. Then, with all the valves on the grill turned off, open the cylinder valve by turning the handle counter-clockwise. If bubbles appear, the connections are not tight and the condition must be corrected before the grill is used. Never use a match or other flame to test for leaks."

Supervisor Venditto went on to say that after making sure there are no leaks, light a match and hold at the burner before turning on the burner valve. If the match goes out, it means there may still be a leak in the connection that must be fixed before you use the grill.

When your grill is not in use, make sure the valve at the cylinder is turned off. The grill should be stored so children cannot play with it. An unattended grill might just attract an inquisitive child who could then be hurt as a result.

When the cylinder requires refilling, first close the cylinder valve. Then, disconnect the regulator inlet connector from the cylinder valve by turning the hexagon nut in a clockwise position. Remove the regulator inlet connector from the cylinder valve and place it in a protected location. Take the cylinder to the nearest propane dealer for filling.

"People are using outdoor gas/propane grills in increasing numbers every year," Supervisor Venditto commented. "If you own a propane grill, please be alert to its safe use. The guidelines I have suggested are generally applicable to all gas grills, but be sure you carefully read, and follow to the letter, the instructions that come with your grill. Then, get out the hamburgers, hotdogs or steaks and have a great summer barbecue.

"While I'm on the subject of grills, just a reminder for those of you who use charcoal grills. When you're finished cooking that delicious dinner on the grill, ashes should be left to cool completely and then securely packaged before being put into containers for collection. Remember, containers should not exceed 32 gallons in size or weigh more than 50 pounds when filled."