Fire and Safety Advice for BBQs

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During this summer period Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Services have attended several fires associated with BBQ’s. Please follow their safety advice below.

Balcony/Disposable BBQ’s

  • There is a high risk that burning material from your balcony BBQ can be carried by the wind on the outside of the building into other residents’ flats
  • There is a high risk that Carbon Monoxide will collect in your flat or your neighbours’ flat causing CO Poisoning
  • Should the BBQ become out of control due to fuel loading there is high potential for fire
  • Any use of flammable liquids has the possibility of increasing the risk of fire

Due to the risks above; having a BBQ on your balcony is NOT SAFE and we recommend that you do not have a BBQ on your balcony.

Disposable BBQs are contained in an aluminium tray which whilst being used will get hot enough to ignite any flammable material it is placed on including wood and grass.

If you do wish to have a BBQ, locate somewhere that is safe and where there is no prohibition against having a BBQ.

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
  • 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
  • Ensure the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it
  • DO NOT use in an enclosed space
  • Dispose of ashes in a fireproof container and damp down with water

Charcoal Barbecues

  • Use only enough charcoal to cover the base to a depth of about 50mm
  • Only use recognised fire lighters or starter fuel and only on cold coals
  • Never put hot ashes straight into a dustbin or wheelie bin

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
  • 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

Please take note of the safety information above and stay safe.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Photo by Min An from Pexels