The sun's out and barbecue season is officially here.
And Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service want to make sure we keep safe while we're sizzling, so whether you're a fan of a disposable BBQ or a devotee of the gas variety, here are some simple precautions to follow this summer.
- Never leave the BBQ unattended
- Ensure the BBQ is on a flat site, well away from a shed, trees or shrubs
- Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area
- Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies
- Ensure the BBQ is cool before attempting to move it
Be carbon monoxide aware
Never use fuel-burning devices such as disposable barbecues, camping stoves, camping heaters, lanterns, and charcoal grills inside a tent, as using these indoors can cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning - opening tent flaps, doors or windows is insufficient to prevent build-up of CO concentrations.
When using fuel-burning devices outdoors, the exhaust should not vent into enclosed shelters.
Biggest danger
A spokesperson for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service says the greatest danger by far is the use of flammable liquids to light barbecues.
"We have had a couple of occasions where people have poured petrol on to the charcoal in an effort to get it going and the reaction has, not surprisingly, been violent and highly dangerous.
"Prepare well in advance and light the charcoal early."
For more information about how to barbecue safely, click here .
