Napoleon Terrace SE325PK propane grill, $399, Napoleon Gourmet Grills. Photography courtesy of Napoleon Gourmet Grills.

  After a winter as punishing as the one we've just had, it's particularly important to give your grill a thorough inspection. Even stashed away in a shed or garage during the off-season, freezing cold temperatures and general wear-and-tear could compromise your 'cue's cooking performance and even pose some serious safety concerns. Before firing up your grill this spring, follow the four-step plan recommended by the folks at Barrie, Ontario-based Napoleon Gourmet Grills. 1. Clean it up. Starting with the right tools is absolutely essential. Here's what you'll need for a sparkling (and sanitized!) barbeque: * Brass wire brush * Small pail to hold hot water * Dish soap * Venturi brush * 1/16" drill bit * Replacement grease cups * Spatula * Stainless steel cleaner * Fine sandpaper - Detach the burners and remove them from the grill for a thorough cleaning. Pass a venturi brush through each burner to dislodge any blockages, then scrub the tops with the brass wire brush. Once the burners are clean, check all of the burner ports to ensure that they're opened. If you find any blockages, use the 1/16" drill bit to dislodge them. - Sear plates and cooking grills should be washed with hot, soapy water. Brush the top side of the grills with a little oil to re-season them. - Hot, soapy water works wonders on grease stains on the cast base and and sides of the grill, and on porcelain lids. Use stainless steel cleaner to spruce up stainless steel lids. Brushing cast aluminum with a little olive oil will help restore lustre and prevent oxidation. - Finally, use a spatula to scrape grease from the inside of the base all the way down towards the drip pan. Remove the drip pan and give it a good washing. Be sure to replace the tin foil grease catcher, too. 2. Inspect all hoses and feed tubes. Look for any crimps, scratching or punctures. Replace as needed. 3. Do a complete leak test. A leak test should be performed any time your grill has been in storage for a prolonged period of time, and whenever you've changed any components on your grill. For complete leak test info, check out the Napoleon Grills leak test video. 4. Check all ignition parts. Replace the batteries in battery-ignition barbeques. Check all electrode leads and ensure the tips of the electrodes are clean and have no grease or rust buildup. If they do, use sandpaper to clean them.     Follow me on Twitter!