Click on the picture above for a PDF of the Fire Safety Outdoors leaflet.

26 May 2009

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service is issuing its seasonal barbecue safety warning following an incident in Milton Keynes yesterday afternoon.

Firefighters from Great Holm were called to a gas barbecue out of control in Turneys Drive, Wolverton Mill, at 5.13pm. They isolated the gas supply, put out the fire with a hose reel and provided barbecue safety tips.

Terry Ridgley, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service's community safety manager said: “It's natural to want to make the most of the good weather by going outdoors for a barbecue with family and friends.

"However, there are a few things it's worth remembering to make sure you don't end up having to ring 999.

“By following some simple rules, you can ensure your barbecue is a safe and enjoyable event. It's mainly just a matter of common sense.”

Terry’s top 10 tips are:

• Never use of flammable liquids to light the barbecue. Prepare well in advance, using enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue - normally around five centimetres
  
  
• Enjoy yourself, but don’t drink too much alcohol if you are in charge of the barbecue
  
  
• Make sure your barbecue is well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs and garden waste
  
  
• Keep children, pets and garden games away from the cooking area
  
  
• Follow the safety instructions provided with disposable barbecues
  
  
• Never use a barbecue indoors
  
  
• Never leave a barbecue unattended
  
  
• After cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before moving it
  
  
• Empty ashes on to bare garden soil, not into dustbins or wheelie bins
  
  
• Always keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby for emergencies

Additional safety tips if you have a gas barbecue

• Never store gas cylinders under the stairs – if there is a fire they might explode and block your escape route
  
  
• Store gas cylinders outside, away from direct sunlight and frost
  
  
• Take care when turning bottled gas barbecues on and off
  
  
• Make sure the tap is turned off before changing the gas cylinder
  
  
• After cooking, turn the gas supply off first and then the barbecue control. This will stop any gas from leaking
  
  
• If you suspect a leak, turn off the gas cylinder and try brushing soapy water around all joints, watching for bubbles
  
  
• Make sure all joints are tightened, safe and secure
  
  
• Change gas cylinders outdoors or in a well ventilated area