The weather is glorious, and the perfect time to clean up the barbecue (BBQ) and start grilling! However, barbecuing can become dangerous when not done responsibly, so it’s vital to always keep safety in mind.
Below are some hints and tips to make sure you keep safe this summer.
- Never use a barbecue (including disposables) indoors or on your balcony.
- Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area.
- Don’t cook in communal areas. Have your barbecues in a private space, away from neighbours and well away from sheds, fences, trees or shrubs.
- Have a fire extinguisher close to hand and know how to use it/ you also need to know how to cut the gas supply, and it’s useful to know how to treat burns.
- Never leave your barbecue unattended.
- Smoke can get in hair, clothes, eyes and lungs, but also contains carbon monoxide and other dangerous substances. Try and keep your distance as much as possible.
- Grilling gloves and utensils with a long handle will keep arms and hands safe from flames.
- Wash your hands before preparing food, after touching raw meat and before eating.
- Check food is cooked: ideally, burgers, chicken and sausages should be tested with a thermometer before eating and no pink meat should be visible.
- After you have finished cooking, check the charcoal is cold or the gas has been turned off. Store your barbecue in a safe, dry place and not on your balcony.
- Remember to clean up your barbecue after using to avoid any pests.
See more advice on safer barbecues from London Fire Brigade.
If you have an emergency while having a barbecue, please call 999.