[22 June 2007]

Safe Barbecuing!

Now that the warm, light evenings are finally with us and the smell of barbecues are sizzling across the County, a timely warning has been issued by East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Most of these safety tips are common sense. By far the biggest danger is the use of flammable liquids to light the barbecue. Prepare well in advance and light the charcoal early. Most of all, enjoy yourself in safety.

By following some simple rules you can ensure your barbecue is a safe enjoyable event:

• Never pour flammable liquid onto a barbeque, for any reason.
• Keep young children well away from the barbecue.
• Stand portable barbecues on an even surface and make sure they are positioned well away from the house, fences or shed.
• Use only approved lighter fuels, never petrol.
• Lighter fuels must only be applied before lighting.
• Remember to light your charcoal an hour before you commence cooking.
• Don´t be over generous with the charcoal.
• Be careful with fatty foods and never pour oil onto meat when it is cooking.
• After the event seal your charcoal bag and store in a dry place, which will make it easier to light next time.
• If you are the chef, try not to drink too much whilst cooking.
• Never poor petrol on any barbecue to try and re-ignite it - start the process again, properly.
• After you have finished cooking, extinguish the burning coals. Then leave a period of time, approx 1 to 3 hours, to check that the fire is completely out.

[Allison Gilson]