by Charlotte DeWinter

Created on: June 14, 2010

The world is changing every second of every day. These changes also affect how we cook, to be more specific, how we grill. People are slowly transitioning from a charcoal grill to a gas grill. Here’s the issue, how to set up a gas grill safely without setting yourself, someone else, or something else on fire.

Step 1: Clean the Grill

No matter if your grill is used or new, there will most likely be something on it that could be a potential fire hazard. If it is new, take all plastic and paper off of the grill. Next, take a grill brush and scrub down the grill racks and wipe down the inside of the grill. Just in case there is something such as leaves or some other random object is in the grill, doing this will make sure you remove all of these hazards before you bring fire into the picture.

Step 2: Propane Tank

Make sure your propane tank’s knob is not broken and that there are not any dents in the tank. If there is some rust on the tank, that is okay. Connect the tank to the grill, where to connect it on the grill will vary with the model. Make sure all of the connections are secure and that there are no leaks in the tubing. Make sure the tank isn’t around the flames of the fire and that it is sitting upright.

Step 3: Release the Gas

Depending on the model of your propane tank, the knob might turn left or right to release the gas to the grill. Turn the knob, once you hear the hiss of the gas you will know that the gas is moving through the tubing to the grill. Never leave the propane tank on unless you are grilling.

Step 4: Light the Fire

Depending on the model of your grill, turn the knob or press the button that lights the fire to the grill. Once, the flame catches, you can increase the flame slowly until you reach the desired heat for whatever you are cooking.

Step 5: Cook your Food

Make sure the flames are at least high enough to warm the grilling rack. Close the lid for about twenty minutes to get the heat transferred evenly through the grill. Afterwards, place your food on the grill and grill as you would on a charcoal grill. Make sure to turn off all burners and turn off the propane tank after done grilling. Following these steps will insure a safe first experience with a gas grill and will insure a delicious meal.

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