Don't forget the most important ingredient to any gas barbecue event: SAFETY. Review the tips below for simple, practical safety advice.

FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS.

Whether it's assembly, use, maintenance, cleaning, or storage, make your barbecue manufacturer's instructions your go-to resource for safe barbecuing.

POSITION THE BARBECUE IN A SAFE LOCATION.

Only use your barbecue outdoors and at least five feet from the house on a level surface that is clear of outdoor furniture, overhead trees, or other potential fire hazards.

CHECK FOR LEAKS.

Use a soapy water solution to check connections for leaks. Expanding bubbles indicate a leak. Follow this procedure every time you replace a cylinder.

FOLLOW PROPER LIGHTING PROCEDURES.

Follow the manufacturer's lighting instructions, and with all barbecue models, keep the lid open and don't lean over the barbecue when lighting it.

FOLLOW PROPER RELIGHTING PROCEDURES.

If your flame goes out, turn off the gas and refer to your owner's manual. At a minimum, with all barbecue models, keep the lid open and wait at least 15 minutes before relighting.

BE PRESENT.

Stay close and never leave your barbecue unattended.