The Fourth of July is all about freedom, fireworks, and—of course—firing up the grill. Whether you're serving up burgers, hot dogs, or veggie skewers, there's nothing quite like that smoky, flame-kissed flavor to bring people together.

But while we love a good backyard barbecue, safety should always be part of the recipe—especially when propane is involved.

Before you strike a match, take a few minutes to brush up on these propane and grilling safety tips. Because nothing ruins a celebration faster than a preventable accident.

🛠️ 1. Check Your Grill & Propane Tank

Before the big cookout:

• Inspect your propane tank: Look for rust, dents, or signs of wear. If the tank is older than 12 years, it might be time for a replacement.

• Check for leaks: Mix soap and water and brush it onto the hose and connections. If bubbles appear when the gas is on, you’ve got a leak—turn it off immediately and have it checked by a professional.

• Test the igniter: Make sure it sparks cleanly. If it doesn’t ignite quickly, turn everything off and wait a few minutes before trying again.

🔥 2. Grill Outdoors—And Keep It Clear

This might sound obvious, but you'd be surprised:

• Always grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area—never in a garage or under an awning.

• Keep the grill 10 feet away from your house, deck railings, or overhanging branches.

• Create a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the grill.

👨🍳 3. Light It the Right Way

When it’s time to light up:

• Open the lid before lighting to prevent gas buildup.

• If the flame goes out, turn off the gas and wait at least 5 minutes before trying again.

• Never lean over the grill while lighting it.

🧯 4. Keep Safety Gear Nearby

Be prepared:

• Have a fire extinguisher nearby—and know how to use it.

• Keep a spray bottle of water on hand for small flare-ups.

• Don’t wear loose-fitting clothing or anything that could catch fire.

🌭 5. Don’t Leave It Unattended

Even if you're just stepping away to grab drinks—don’t leave the grill unattended. Assign someone to keep an eye on things if you need a break.

🧼 6. Clean It Up

After the grilling’s done:

• Turn off the propane tank first, then the burners.

• Let the grill cool completely before covering or storing.

• Scrape down grates to remove grease, which can cause future flare-ups.

🎇 Have Fun, Stay Safe

We love the energy of the Fourth—good food, great company, and the smell of a fresh-grilled feast. With a few safety precautions, you can keep the focus on celebration, not complications.

From our team at JackGas to your backyard, have a fun, delicious, and safe Independence Day! 🇺🇸