With Memorial Day weekend upon us, Nassau County Legislator Edward Mangano and Fire Commissioner Ron McDonnell encourage the following barbecue safety tips:

• Never bring a barbeque indoors or onto a porch or into a garage;

• Keep the cover open when lighting;

• All propane cylinders (4- to 40-pounds) bought before Sept. 30, 1998 must be recertified and refitted with Overfilling Prevention Device (OPD) valves. The OPD shuts off the cylinder after it has been filled to over 80% capacity and helps prevent overfilling. In many cases it is more economical to buy a new tank. You can tell if your tank needs an OPD if the hand wheel is round or star shaped. New ones are triangular in shape;

• Check gas hoses for cracks and deterioration. Make sure the hoses are not clogged by dirt or insects; use a pipe cleaner or wire to clear any blockage;

• Tanks older than 12 years should be replaced;

• Transport cylinders in an upright position on the floor of a vehicle with the windows open;

• Never leave a cylinder in the car, especially on a hot day;

• Store propane in regulation containers away from potential sources of flame heat;

• Turn off the valve to propane tanks when not in use;

• If you smell gas leave the area and call the Fire Department: Dial 911 from outside your home; and

• Always follow manufacturers' instructions when it comes to installation, maintenance and repairs.