Bangers and burgers on the barbecue could be the recipe for disaster if fire safety is not added as an extra ingredient.
The warning comes as summer sees many of us eating outdoors with family and friends.
Robin Turnbull, Area Manager, Prevention, Protection and Engagement, Cleveland Fire Brigade, said: “It can be lot of fun throwing a bit of meat on the barbie, having a drink and just enjoying being outside. But just remember in the hotter temperatures you need to stay cool and not switch off when it comes to being safe and sensible.
“Only your sausages should be sizzling this summer and you don’t want our firefighters to turn up as unexpected guests. Always keep an eye on your barbecue, drink responsibly and have a supply of water easily accessible if thinks do go wrong. Also keep children, pets, and garden furniture away from the cooking area.
“A few things like putting the barbecue too near a fence or shed can quickly spread a fire and cause a lot of damage and put you and others in danger.”
“Never add petrol or paraffin to turn up the heat and get the flames going. This really could be a disaster.”
Other simple tips to follow:
- Place barbecues on a non-ignitable flat surface
- 5cm (2 inches) of charcoal is sufficient to use to cover the base of the barbecue.
- Make sure the barbecue is cool before moving it.
- Empty ash into a metal container or on to soil not into the bin – warm ash melts plastic
- Only barbecue outdoors – your garage, shed or tent are not suitable. Carbon monoxide kills!
Follow these extra tips if you are using a gas barbecue:
- Make sure your barbecue is in good working order.
- Make sure the tap is off before changing the gas cylinder and do it in the open air.
- When you have finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before you turn off the barbecue controls – this means any gas in the pipeline will be used up.
