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MAKE SURE YOUR BBQ STAYS AS SAFE AS HOUSES WITH MUIR

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WITH barbecues being dusted off ready for the warm weather, it’s worth remembering the top safety tips. 

The last thing you want is for fire to threaten your home and your family because you didn’t take the time to stay safe. 

Make sure your sausages singe to perfection, rather than ruining your fun in the sun!

 

 

General Safety 

  • Make sure your barbecue is in good working order. 
  • Ensure the barbecue is on a flat site, well away from a shed, trees or shrubs.
  • Don't use a barbecue on a balcony.
  • Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area. 
  • Never leave the barbecue unattended. 
  • Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies. 
  • EFire imagensure the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it. 

 

Charcoal Barbecues 

  • Use only enough charcoal to cover the base to a depth of about 50mm (2 inches). 
  • Only use recognised fire lighters or starter fuel and only on cold coals – use the minimum necessary and never use petrol. 
  • Never put hot ashes straight into a dustbin or wheelie bin – they could melt the plastic and cause a fire. 

 

Gas Barbecues 

  • Make sure the tap is turned off before changing the gas cylinder. 
  • Change cylinders outdoors if possible or in a well-ventilated area. 
  • If you suspect a leak to the cylinder or pipe work, brush soapy water around the joints and watch for bubbles – tighten to fix but do not overtighten. 
  • After cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before turning off at the controls to ensure any residual gas in the pipe work is used up. 

 

Disposable Barbecues 

  • It must be placed on an even surface on either bricks or paving slabs. 
  • Place disposable barbecues well away from the house, shed or fences. 
  • Do not use disposable barbecues near or on public benches. 
  • If you're using a disposable barbecue ensure it has cooled before putting it in the bin. To avoid starting a fire you should allow it to cool for several hours and then consider pouring water over it to make sure it's out. 

 

Visit www.fireservice.co.uk/safety/barbecue/ for more information.