As summer continues on, lots of us will be relaxing and eating outside. But it’s important to stay safe, and here’s a quick reminder on the risks.
Maybe you want to enjoy a picnic in the park on a nice day? Be careful of the risks of using a barbecue, especially disposable barbecues, in parks or open public spaces. The grass can be very dry, making it easy for fires to spread when barbecues are not put out properly. Please help protect the safety of yourself and those around you, as well as the wildlife.
If you have a balcony, summer is the perfect time to enjoy it! But unfortunately, they’re a highly unsafe place to use a barbecue. On higher levels it’s very easy for the wind to carry smouldering ash to surrounding surfaces – and the balcony itself can easily catch fire from the flames and hot embers, spreading to other parts of the building.
If you are using a barbecue at home, you can use it safely by placing it on level ground, and well away from any fences, trees, sheds, or anything else that can catch fire. You should also avoid lighting barbecues in enclosed spaces, and don’t use accelerants such as gel lighters, lighting fuel, charcoal or fire lighters.
Whilst barbecuing, it’s also good practice to keep a bucket of sand or water close by in case of emergencies – and keep any pets or children at a safe distance. Try to avoid distractions whilst manning the barbecue and never leave it unattended. It’s also best to avoid drinking alcohol whilst cooking if you are in charge of the barbecue.
Make sure you let the barbecue cool after cooking, and that it is properly out – you don’t want to risk the dangerous carbon monoxide fumes from any remaining ashes.
Enjoy your summer barbecues, and stay safe!
