16/7/2009 - BBQ tips for safe sizzling

With hot summer evenings and the sizzling scent of burnt charcoal wafting through back gardens Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is issuing a timely warning on how to have a safe barbecue.

During a long, hot summer, grass and vegetation are generally dry, which means if a fire is accidentally started outdoors it will spread very quickly, destroying everything in its path. 

Add a light summer breeze to the equation and the fire will spread even more rapidly - it could destroy a garden, spread to homes and endanger the lives of those inside. 

Lesley Graham, Community Safety Manager for Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: "We are currently experiencing some delightful weather and it is natural to want to go outdoors and enjoy it with family and friends.

"Using petrol to light your barbecue or leaving it unattended are two of the most common mistakes people make. Every summer this results in firefighters being called to fires caused by barbecues that have got out of control. In some instances, this has led to serious injuries and damage to property."

By following some simple rules you can ensure your barbecue is a safe 

By following some simple rules you can ensure your barbecue is a safe and enjoyable event. 

- Follow the safety instructions provided with disposable barbecues. Never use a barbecue indoors. 

- Never leave a barbecue unattended. 

- Make sure your barbecue is well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs or garden waste. 

- Use enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue, but not more (normally around 5cms or 2 inches). 

- Keep children, pets and garden games away from the cooking area. 

- After cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before moving it. 

- Empty ashes onto bare garden soil, not into dustbins or wheelie bins. If they’re hot, they can melt the plastic and cause a fire.

- Enjoy yourself, but don’t drink too much alcohol if you are in charge of the barbecue. 

- Always keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby for emergencies. 

Lesley added: "This may seem a long list but most of these things are common sense. By far the biggest danger is the use of flammable liquids to light the barbecue. We have had occasions where people have poured petrol onto the charcoal in an effort to get it going and the reaction has, not surprisingly, been violent and highly dangerous. 

"Everyone should prepare well in advance and light the charcoal early - but most of all we want people to enjoy themselves safely".

ENDS

Media enquiries to Media Officer Chris Little on 01228 226335.