Summer is in full swing and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is urging residents across the county to be careful when barbecuing this July.
“Just as you would when cooking in the kitchen, you need to take care when firing up your barbecues,” said Nicola Smith, Prevention Manager at RBFRS. “Whether you are going camping or having a barbecue at home, there are simple ways you can reduce the risk of a fire caused by cooking this summer.
“If you’re hosting a barbecue this summer, make sure your barbecue is placed on stable, level ground and is away from any sheds, fences, trees and shrubs.
“Always supervise children and pets to make sure they are kept away from the cooking area and be extra careful when cooking fatty foods as the dripping grease can cause the barbecue to flare up.
“Keep a garden hose or bucket of water to hand for emergencies and call 999 if a fire does start.”
“Finally, when you’ve finished cooking, give the barbecue time to cool down before cleaning it. Throwing hot coals straight into the bin will likely start a fire. Coals should be left for a minimum of 48 hours prior to disposal.”
Follow our tips for barbecuing safely this July.
Barbecues in the Garden
- Make sure your barbecue is well away from sheds, fences, trees and shrubs.
- Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
- Set up your barbecue on level ground.
- If you have a gas barbecue always store gas cylinders outside.
- Use only approved lighter fluids and only ever on cold coals.
- Keep a bucket of water, sand, or a garden hose nearby for emergencies.
- Be careful when cooking fatty foods, the dripping fat can cause the barbecue to flare up.
- Don’t leave a lit barbecue unattended.
- Don’t cook if you’re under the influence of alcohol or affected by prescription drugs.
- Don’t take a barbecue indoors – even when the flames aren’t visible, it can still give off carbon monoxide fumes, which can be deadly.
Read more outdoor cooking safety advice on our website.