Blue Rhino (ARA) - Independence Day is the most popular outdoor cooking holiday of the year with more than two-thirds of Americans firing up the grill, smoker or fryer, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. A few simple steps can help you prepare your grill to make sure you have a safe backyard celebration.

Make sure your tank is ready
Make a trip ahead of time to a Blue Rhino propane exchange outlet to help make sure you have enough propane so your party won't stop in its tracks. Purchasing a propane tank without exchanging an empty, or exchanging your current tank for a fresh tank, can also help avoid:

* Damaged tanks -- Consumers should never try to repair tank damage on their own and should bring the canister to a propane exchange outlet immediately.

* Obsolete tanks -- Tanks with round- or star-shaped hand wheels do not contain Overfill Prevention Devices and can no longer be filled.

Transport your tank safely
After you buy your tank, secure it upright in a well-ventilated area of your vehicle. Take it directly to the point of use.

Check for leaks
When attaching your tank to the grill, use soapy water to check the tank and valve for leaks. Open the valve but leave the appliance off while testing. Don't use a match or open flame to check for leaks. Blue Rhino includes safety and leak checking information on the side of each tank to help.

Lighting your grill
Before lighting, always refer to the grill manufacturer's safety and operating instructions.

Tank storage
When you store a tank, be sure to keep it in an upright, vertical position. Never store tanks in a garage, building or enclosed area. Never store an extra tank under your grill.

To view more safety tips from Blue Rhino, please visit www.bluerhino.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent