Fire chief gives advice on barbecues
As temperatures continue to soar, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to take care when using their barbecues.
Group Manager Rob Quinn, Head of Carmarthenshire Command, said:"This lovely weather is without doubt a brilliant opportunity to get out the barbecue and enjoy the summer sun.
"However, I would urge anyone intending to use their barbecue to ensure they thoroughly check the equipment before lighting.
"Very often the condition of the equipment will have deteriorated since the last time it was used, with rubber hoses and seals perishing, and connections loosening, particularly if the barbecue has been left outside".
To enjoy a safe BBQ this summer, follow these few simple rules:
•Keep a bucket of water, a bucket of sand or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies;
•Never leave the barbecue unattended;
•Use only enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue to a depth of about 5cm (two inches);
•Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area;
•Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbecue, use only recognised lighters or starter fuel on cold coals;
•Enjoy yourself but don´t drink too much alcohol if you´re in charge of the BBQ;
•After cooking make sure the barbecue is cool enough before moving it.
When using a gas cylinder BBQ, you should also:
•Check that the hoses are in good condition;
•Check that the reducer valve is fitted firmly to the cylinder and the on/off valve operates properly;
•Check that the clips connecting the hoses to solid fixtures are in good condition and firmly connected;
•Check that the gas cylinder appears to be in good condition with no signs of corrosion;
•Check that the inside of the BBQ is clean and free of fat and grease.
Rob Quinn added:"Barbecues are a great way to have fun and enjoy the summer sun with family and friends, however, I would urge people to ensure they follow our simple fire safety tips to ensure they enjoy their BBQs without incident."
Group Manager Rob Quinn, Head of Carmarthenshire Command, said:"This lovely weather is without doubt a brilliant opportunity to get out the barbecue and enjoy the summer sun.
"However, I would urge anyone intending to use their barbecue to ensure they thoroughly check the equipment before lighting.
"Very often the condition of the equipment will have deteriorated since the last time it was used, with rubber hoses and seals perishing, and connections loosening, particularly if the barbecue has been left outside".
To enjoy a safe BBQ this summer, follow these few simple rules:
•Keep a bucket of water, a bucket of sand or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies;
•Never leave the barbecue unattended;
•Use only enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue to a depth of about 5cm (two inches);
•Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area;
•Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbecue, use only recognised lighters or starter fuel on cold coals;
•Enjoy yourself but don´t drink too much alcohol if you´re in charge of the BBQ;
•After cooking make sure the barbecue is cool enough before moving it.
When using a gas cylinder BBQ, you should also:
•Check that the hoses are in good condition;
•Check that the reducer valve is fitted firmly to the cylinder and the on/off valve operates properly;
•Check that the clips connecting the hoses to solid fixtures are in good condition and firmly connected;
•Check that the gas cylinder appears to be in good condition with no signs of corrosion;
•Check that the inside of the BBQ is clean and free of fat and grease.
Rob Quinn added:"Barbecues are a great way to have fun and enjoy the summer sun with family and friends, however, I would urge people to ensure they follow our simple fire safety tips to ensure they enjoy their BBQs without incident."
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