Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. However, barbecues are a huge fire risk. Disposable barbecues are particularly dangerous. This is because people often try to throw them away before they have fully cooled down.
Follow this advice to keep yourself, others and the environment safe.
Before lighting a barbecue, check that you:
- are allowed to use it where you are
- have placed it on a flat, stable surface such as stone or paving slabs
- are well away from anything that could catch fire, such as wood, including:
- sheds
- fences
- trees
- wooden balconies
Always read the instructions before using your barbecue. Use the correct items to light it.
You should never leave a lit barbecue unattended. Always keep children and pets well away from the area.
Disposable barbecues
Every summer we attend many fires caused by disposable barbecues. If you use one, you must make sure it is cool enough before you throw it away.
Follow these 3 steps:
- Sizzle: remember that barbecues can stay extremely hot, even after you've finished cooking
- Sit: leave your barbecue to cool for several hours
- Soak: cover the barbecue with plenty of water - remember, if it sizzles it’s still too hot put in a bin
Watch our video about disposable barbecues.
Charcoal barbecues
You will usually use starter fuel or fire lighters to light a charcoal barbecue. You must never use petrol or paraffin.
Never use charcoal barbecues indoors or in enclosed spaces, such as a tent, caravan or awning. This can cause a fire. It could also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Gas barbecues
Make sure the barbecue is turned off before changing the cylinder.
Always change the cylinder outdoors.