If there's anything that smells better than the first barbeque of the year, we haven't found it. But before you fire up, check off these safety tips:

1. If you are buying a new barbeque, ensure it is CSA approved and carefully follow the manufacturer's assembly instructions.
2. Remove grates and rocks to ensure burner holes and tubes are rust and debris free.
3. Check for an even flame. If it is not even, replace the burner
4. Check for gas leaks by applying a mixture of soap and water to all connections, hoses and the gas cylinder head. If bubbles form, you have a leak. Repair or replace before use.

Once you know your grill is safe to fire up, follow these 10 tips to use it safely:

1. Keep your barbeque at least 5 feet from your house, deck railing, or any other flammable surface.
2. When lighting, open the lid, then the tank valve, then the burner.
3. Open your propane tank just one quarter turn. That's all the fuel needed, and it's easy to quickly turn off.
4. Once lit, never leave children unattended around your barbeque.
5. Never use lighter fluid or any sort of accelerant on a propane grill.
6. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby .
7. When shutting down, close the tank valve, then the burner, then the lid.
8. Never move or cover your BBQ until it has completely cooled.

Easy tips to help you keep safe around propane.

1. Store propane tanks upright in a well-ventilated or outdoor area.
2. Inspect tank for signs of deterioration before refilling.
3. Replace tanks every 10 years.
4. Transport only in an upright position.
5. If transporting in a car, place tank in the trunk.
6. Insert a plastic plug in the gas outlet while transporting.
7. Only permit qualified personnel to fill your tank.

Transporting and Storing Portable Propane Tanks

1. Store propane tanks standing upright in an area outside or in a well-ventilated shed.
2. Ask your propane distributor to inspect the tank for signs of deterioration before it is refilled. Replace propane tanks every 10 years.
3. When transporting a propane tank, make sure it remains in an upright position and use a plastic plug in the gas outlet for greater safety.
4. Place the tank in the trunk of the car for travel.
5. Have your tank filled only by qualified personnel.