New Rules on Propane Seek Safer BBQ Grills

This spring may be safer for outdoor chefs because of new rules aimed at keeping gas barbecues from exploding, the government said Thursday.

There are about 600 fires and explosions involving gas grills each year that injure about 30 people, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said.

But beginning April 1, a change to the national fire code requires propane gas tanks sold to consumers for grills to have “overfill prevention” devices, the agency said.

The devices help prevent gas leaks by stopping the flow of gas to tanks when they are 80% full.

The fire code was published by the National Fire Protection Assn. and adopted by most local governments and agencies.

It also requires older tanks being brought in for refills to be replaced with tanks that have the devices, the agency said.

“As people trade in their old propane tanks for newer ones, we will see fewer fires,” said Thomas Moore, the agency’s acting chairman.

Propane cylinders manufactured after Sept. 30, 1998, already have the safety devices, according to the fire protection association.

The improved propane tanks have valve handles with three prongs while handles on older tanks are round or star-shaped with five prongs.

While some dealers are trading in old tanks free, others may charge up to $20, the government said.

The safety commission also offered these tips to prevent gas grill accidents:

* Check grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks.

* Always keep propane gas containers upright.

* Never store spare gas containers under or near the grill, indoors or in a hot car.

* Move gas hoses as far as possible from hot surfaces and dripping hot grease.

* Make sure the spark ignition device is working to create a flame, otherwise escaping gas could explode.