Article updated 08/07/2022
Disposable BBQs can smoulder unnoticed for hours after you have finished using them and can easily reignite causing fires in parks, bins and refuse collection vehicles.
As we move into the summer season and fire up the BBQs people are being asked to take a few, simple precautions to keep everyone safe.
- Disposable BBQs should be left to cool for several hours before being disposed of. Never put hot embers into your bin.
- Use water or sand to pour over the charcoal embers or ash before putting it into a bin, to ensure the heat has been eliminated. This is important because many fires start due to the heat from leftover disposable BBQs, rather than the flames themselves.
- Remember, ash and embers can still be very hot even if they appear unlit, so take extra care when handling the BBQ. Do not move it immediately after use or after it has been extinguished. It can take a long time for the BBQ to cool down enough to safely move.
- Do not dispose of them in the recycling bin, as they cannot be recycled. Once completely cold, they should be placed in the household waste bin.
- Care should be taken when using disposable BBQs in the countryside. Never leave them unattended and make sure they are fully out and have gone completely cold after use.
Avoid taking BBQs to the park, beach or countryside (especially during warm periods where dry grass or trees can easily catch fire). NEVER use a BBQ on dry moorland as it can lead to devastating fires.
If you cannot avoid them, never leave them unattended, always follow the instructions carefully and make sure they are fully out and have gone completely cold after use.
Find out more information at http://www.syfire.gov.uk/