Make sure meat is all that gets sizzled this weekend

5 February 2016

Make sure meat is all that gets sizzled this weekend

A long weekend – and a promise of good weather, so probably time to get the mates or family round for a bit of a barbie?

To make sure you make it through the long weekend, and safely back to work, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has some tips.

The main risk with BBQs (other than Aunty Maisie’s potato salad) are the LPG cylinders that fuel BBQs and outdoor heaters. LPG burns very well, making it great for cooking and heating, but that also means cylinders can catch fire or even explode. The gas itself can make people sick. To minimise the danger:

· Keep the cylinder a safe distance from the heat of the BBQ

· Don’t smoke near stored gas bottles as they may develop leaks which could be ignited

· Only use BBQs and outdoor heaters outside

· Turn LPG bottles off at the valve

· Only store one or two cylinders. If you live in an apartment building or a flat that’s joined to other flats, the law says you may only have one

· Check the condition of the cylinder(s) - in particular check rubber parts for cracking, and replace anything that looks damaged or worn

· Check for leaks – while the cylinder is on, either sniff for a rotting vegetable smell or apply soapy water to the connections and look for bubbles

· Avoid using LPG around children with breathing problems (e.g. asthma).

Of course, while you are outside you may be using sunscreen or sun protection lotions. To stay safe:

· Read the label and follow the directions

· Check if you’re allergic to any of the ingredients with a patch test

· Make sure to keep the container out of reach of young children

· Check the container is properly labelled – it must be in English, include a list of ingredients, have information about how to contact the manufacturer or supplier, and have the manufacturer’s batch code information.

If you have a reaction, stop using the lotion and if your reaction is severe, get medical assistance. You can contact the EPA’s Hazardous Substance team about incorrectly labelled products on 0800 HAZSUBS (0800 429 7827) or by email to hazardous.substances@epa.govt.nz

If someone accidentally ingests the lotion call the Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766 (0800 POISON).

For more tips about keeping safe around hazardous substances in your home, search staying safe on the EPA’s website (www.epa.govt.nz)

For more information about safety with LPG go to the LPG Association’s website (www.lpga.co.nz/infoSafety.php).

Ends

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