Now that the warm, light evenings are with us and the summer holidays are fast approaching, barbecues are beginning to sizzle across Northumberland.
While out enjoying the weather, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, as part of the national fire safety campaign, is asking everyone to take extra care when cooking al fresco.
Paul Hedley, Chief Fire Officer at Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said “It’s natural to want to go outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather with family and friends – many of us can’t wait to get the barbecue lit. We all know how tempting it can be to give stubborn coals a helping hand, but, please be patient and make sure you use the right tools for the job.
“And if you’ve planned a barbecue and the weather lets you down, don’t take the barbecue indoors or into a tent, doing so can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, so we are urging everyone to stay safe this summer.”
By following these top tips you can ensure your barbecue is a safe, enjoyable event.
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Never leave a lit barbecue unattended.
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Follow the safety instructions provided with disposable barbecues.
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Never use a barbecue indoors.
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Make sure your barbecue is well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs or garden waste.
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Keep children, pets and garden games away from the cooking area.
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After cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before moving it.
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Use enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue, but not more.
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Never use combustible liquids on a barbeque, for example, petrol.
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Empty ashes onto bare garden soil, not into dustbins or wheelie bins. If they’re hot, they can melt the plastic and cause a fire.
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Enjoy yourself, but don’t drink too much alcohol if you are in charge of the barbecue.
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Always keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby for emergencies.
Councillor John Riddle, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said: “Safety is paramount and we encourage our residents and visitors to take note of the safety advice while still making the most of the good weather.”