Fire Safety
Grill responsibly: BBQ safety tips for a fire-free feast
To ensure your BBQ gatherings stay fun and accident-free, Fire & Rescue Services recommend following these crucial safety tips.
Fire Safety
It’s that time of the year when warm weather and longer evenings call for firing up the grill and savouring delicious meals with loved ones.
To ensure your sausages are the only thing sizzling this BBQ season, follow these expert tips to reduce the risk of fire during or after cooking.
Place your barbecue on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials, such as dry grass, trees, and overhanging branches. Keep a safe distance from your house and other structures to prevent accidental fires.
Never leave your grill unattended, especially when it’s in use. Assign a responsible adult to monitor the cooking process at all times. Quick actions can prevent small incidents from escalating into bigger accidents.
Make sure the BBQ area is free from clutter, including combustible materials like paper plates, napkins, and flammable liquids. Keep children and pets away from the grill to avoid accidents and burns.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lighting your grill. If using a charcoal grill, use proper lighting fluids and never add them to an already-lit fire. With gas grills, check for gas leaks and ensure the lid is open before igniting.
Have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby in case of emergencies. Remember, water should never be used to extinguish a grease fire as it can make it worse. Keep a fire blanket handy as well, just in case.
Regularly clean out grease and fat buildup from the grill to prevent flare-ups. Grease fires can quickly get out of control, so keep the grill’s drip tray clean and use appropriate utensils to handle hot grates.
Use long-handled tools and oven mitts to avoid burns. When finished cooking, properly turn off the grill and let it cool down completely before storing it away. Dispose of charcoal ashes in a metal container once they’re fully extinguished.
By following these steps, you can ensure a fire-free and enjoyable BBQ experience for everyone. Share these valuable BBQ safety tips with your friends and family to keep them informed and let’s make this summer season memorable for all the right reasons.
Remember, a BBQ can give off fumes that can give you carbon monoxide poisoning. You should always leave it outside, never use to cook indoors, and make sure you’re sizzling in a The cooking well ventilated area with fresh air. You can always keep a CO alarm close by for extra peace of mind.
For more safety advice, take a look at our helpful guides.
