Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service have taken to social media to issue advice about barbecue safety due to the increasingly hot weather.
In 2018 it is estimated that across the country fire authorities responded to 917 callouts related to barbecues, a figure that increased by 28% from the previous year.
As the hot weather continues across the region, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service are keen to avoid any accidents and want to make sure that everyone knows the rules about fire safety outdoors.
Regarding barbecue safety, they recommend to:
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Follow the safety instructions provided with disposable barbecues. Never use a barbecue indoors or in a tent.
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Never leave a lit barbecue unattended.
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Make sure that your barbecue is well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs, garden waste or anything else flammable.
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Only use disposable barbecues in specially designated areas in the countryside or local public parks and be sure to carefully follow any safety guidance.
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Use enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue but not more (usually around 5cms/2inches).
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Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
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Make sure the barbecue has cooled before moving it after cooking.
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Empty the ashes onto bare garden soil - not into dustbins or wheelie bins as if they are still hot this could cause a fire.
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Don't drink too much alcohol when cooking with a barbecue.
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Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive a barbecue fire, use only recognised lights or firestarters.
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ALWAYS keep water nearby just in case of an accident.
For more information regarding fire safety outdoors, you can view the official government-backed advice by clicking here.
