With the warm weather on its way you might be starting to enjoy cooking outdoors.

If you’re planning on using a BBQ, it’s important you remember there are steps to take to keep you and your family safe.

We’ve put together some guidance which covers all types of BBQ and fuel.

Follow these simple tips for BBQ safety:

  • Never use a BBQ indoors or on your balcony
  • Position your BBQ on a non-combustible flat surface, away from anything flammable like fences or trees
  • Never leave a lit BBQ unattended
  • Keep your BBQ well away from children and play areas. If you have pets, you may want to keep them indoors or out of the way
  • Always ensure there is enough fresh air in the area where the BBQ is being used
  • Be careful when handling BBQs when you’ve finished cooking as your BBQ will take some hours to cool and still gives off fumes
  • Always supervise children and pets and keep them away from the BBQ.

 

Gas BBQs, ovens and cylinders

  • Check all appliances are in good working order and hoses are attached and undamaged
  • Replace any hoses that show signs of wear, stiffness or cracking
  • Check that your gas taps (or valves) are turned off before changing gas cylinders. Only change the cylinder in the open air
  • Be aware of signs of a gas leak –gas smells a bit like rotten eggs, so if you smell this it’s most likely a gas leak.

Follow these guidelines:

  • most BBQs and ovens now have the clip-on type regulators
  • check all appliances are in good order and hoses are attached and undamaged
  • check that your gas taps (or gas valves) are turned off before changing gas cylinders. Only change the cylinder in the open air
  • change any hoses that show signs of wear, stiffness or cracking
  • signs of a gas leak – if you smell a ‘rotten egg’ it’s most likely an LPG leak

Follow these guidelines for charcoal/real wood BBQs and ovens:

  • Only ever light your BBQ with approved materials or appliances such as BBQ gel, easy light bags, or firelighters. Never use petrol or other flammable liquids
  • Always keep a bucket of water or sand nearby to put out the fire if needed
  • When disposing of BBQs, douse with water, particularly prior to placing them in a bin.

Always ensure there is enough fresh air in the area where the BBQ is being used. Be careful when handling BBQs when you have finished cooking as your BBQ will take some hours to cool and still gives off fumes.

Did you know

  • Fuel sources include natural wood/charcoal and LPG
  • Burning coal produces carbon monoxide which can make you very ill – this is another reason why you should never use a BBQ indoors or in an enclosed space 
  • The unpleasant 'rotten eggs' smell associated with LPG makes it easier to detect, should there be a leak.

For more information on BBQ safety, go to London Fire Brigade.