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                                                                                                       Barbecue Season Is In Full Swing: Don’t Go Up In Flames


The joys of outdoor cooking also bring fire and associated risks. Here are some safety reminders for gas and propane barbecues to protect you and your property from harm or damage.
•    Never operate a barbecue in an enclosed space, close to a structure, or near combustibles. Have a one metre radius around it free of obstructions. 
•    Keep your barbecue in tip top shape. Check for hose breakage, valve leaks, and other parts before securing the tank well and turning on the gas. 
•    When in use, never leave the grill unattended, and when finished turn the tank off before the burners so the remaining gas in the lines can burn off. This can help prevent a flash the next time the BBQ is in use.
•    Make sure your fire extinguisher is easily accessible and in good working order. 
Additional Tips
•    Propane companies use an additive to create an unpleasant odour like rotten eggs to make a propane leak easier to detect, so you can shut off supply immediately, stop using the grill, and clear the area.
•    Although the risk of carbon monoxide is low when using a BBQ outdoors, it is not entirely eliminated. Learn to recognize the signs of CO2 poisoning and take appropriate action.
•    Store propane tanks in an upright position, in a spot where they are unlikely to be knocked or bumped to prevent any safety risk.
 

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Vehicle Thieves in Canada Keep on Truckin'

According to figures recently released by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), thieves are especially targeting Ford F-series trucks which occupy 7 of the top 10 spots on Canada's most frequently stolen vehicle list for 2014. Although auto theft has decreased somewhat, 72,804 vehicles were stolen last year. The IBC thinks the majority of stolen F series vehicles were most likely "re-vinned" - given a false vehicle identification number (VIN) - and sold to unsuspecting consumers. They advise if you are looking to purchase a used vehicle to get it from a reputable dealer, have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic, and run a vehicle history check. A reputable repair shop can also provide information to ensure stolen parts purchased online are not used. To deter thieves, never leave a running vehicle unattended, park in a well-lit area, close vehicle windows and lock doors, and put valuables and packages in trunks. Remember, a professional thief can steal a vehicle in about 30 seconds.