Read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly before grilling.

Open the grill lid before lighting.

Let the grill heat up according to the manufacturer's instructions before adding your food. Meat sticks to a cold grill.

Close the lid while cooking and keep the grill away from deck or patio edges and any structures. Constantly open and closing the lid while cooking can have an adverse effect on keeping an even heat level, making the cooking process longer.

Keep sleeves and long hair away from flames. Tuck your hair up or put a hat on, and roll up your sleeves.

Gas tanks are flammable, so always store them outside and never indoors.

Keep the grill as clean as possible. If you can't wipe the food residue off, turn the grill on high and burn it off. To prevent sticking on any grid apply a light coat of cooking oil while the grid is cold.

Make sure to close the gas nozzle when you're finished cooking.

Make sure the gas is off. Remove the grill grid and stone or briquettes.

Venturi tubes mix air and gas and feed it to the burners, but they need to be clear to work properly and not become a home for spiders and insects in the off-season. Even a small blockage can be a fire hazard.

Remove the entire burner/tube assembly and clean with soapy water, then clean the holes with a wire brush, paper clip, or toothpick. Replace when dry.

Don't forget to check the burners — food acids can cause the burner to corrode. Check for rust and replace if necessary.

Try the igniter with the gas off. You should see a spark at the electrode tip. If you do not see a spark, check to see if the wire is loose. If the electrode is cracked or dirty, replace it. When you try the igniter later with the gas on, the spark should ignite the burner. If not, the venturi may be clogged. Go back to step one.

Hoses can develop dangerous leaks over time. Cooking residue also accumulates on hoses. Animals, such as mice and squirrels, may find them appealing as a snack and chew on them. Turn the gas on. Rub a light coat of soapy water on the hose and look for bubbles. Replace the hose if necessary.

Clean inside and out, especially the inside of the lid. Scrape and remove built-up grease from the interior. The exterior can be sanded and repainted with specially-formulated, heat-resistant grill paint.

If your grill has grease traps, keep them clean and empty them regularly throughout the season.

Clean the cooking grid. Replace the stone or briquettes.