Barbecue Safety

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BARBECUING is an enjoyable way to cook food in the good weather. We want to help you enjoy your barbecue with some safety advice

  • Make sure your barbecue has a CE European Safety Mark
  • Read the instructions before use
  • Never use a barbecue indoors, on wooden decking, or on a balcony
  • Place your barbecue on flat level ground and away from anything flammable such as fences, sheds, trees and bushes
  • Look up, heat rises
  • Never leave your barbecue unattended
  • Only use barbecue approved starter fuel or firelighters. Never use petrol or paraffin
  • Fat from food or oil can cause large flames
  • Have a hose, bucket of water or sand nearby if things get out of hand
  • Keep children and pets away from the barbecue
  • Keep alcohol to a minimum while using the barbecue
  • Don’t move the barbecue when it is lit
  • Ensure the coals are fully cooled before disposing of them. Leave them overnight

 

Gas barbecues

In addition to the above:

  • Change the cylinder outdoors in a well ventilated area. Make sure all the controls and valves are in the off position
  • Store gas cylinders securely outside, away from direct sunlight and protect it from frost
  • Ensure all gas joints are tightened
  • Your gas barbecue should have a flame failure/flame supervision device
  • If you suspect a fault: DO NOT USE, and seek advice from the manufacturer

 

Disposable barbecues

  • Never use indoors, this includes tents, wood cabins and caravans
  • Use only in a well ventilated area. Poisonous Carbon Monoxide can be created when it is lit.
  • Place the disposable barbecue on a level non-flammable surface
  • Never place a disposable barbecue on decking, wooden or plastic garden furniture, glass or grass
  • Allow the barbecue to cool before moving it