As BBQ season heats up, Britons are being urged to follow key safety tips to avoid turning a garden party into a disaster.
With spring in full swing, outdoor living experts at BillyOh are urging homeowners to make BBQ safety a priority.
With many parts of the UK set to enjoy warm and sunny weather next week, the temptation to get the BBQ out is strong.
But before firing up the grill, it’s important to take a few safety precautions and choose the right location.
BBQs should always be placed on level ground in an area that is well-ventilated and away from anything that may catch fire such as sheds or fences.
It’s also important to be mindful of neighbours to avoid complaints or potential legal issues.
A spokesperson for BillyOh said: “We love to see people making the most of their outdoors spaces and firing up the BBQ, especially with the sunny weather we’re having.
“But remember, safety comes first. It can be easy to overlook small details like the positioning of your BBQ but those are the things that can prevent any serious accidents from happening.
“We always advise placing your BBQ in a well-ventilated area on stable ground, away from anything that could be flammable like fencing or sheds.
“And be mindful of any smoke blowing over to your neighbours garden, you don’t want to become a legal nuisance.
“By following these simple tips you can enjoy a safe and stress-free BBQ experience in your garden all summer long.”
BillyOh’s tips for BBQ safety this summer:
Don’t use a BBQ on a balcony
While it’s not necessarily illegal to have a BBQ on a balcony, it is strongly advised against by the London Fire Brigade and most lease agreements would prohibit the use of one. They warn that flames, sparks and hot embers can cause a fire and could spread quickly to other parts of the building. *
Make sure it’s well-positioned
It’s important that your BBQ is well-positioned and that means having it on level ground, and away from anything that may catch fire such as sheds, fences, and trees. It’s also advised not to position your BBQ on decking either unless you use a BBQ mat or fire-resistant pad underneath.
Avoid enclosed spaces
Ventilation is key when it comes to positioning your BBQ and it should never be lit in an enclosed space. BBQs produce carbon monoxide which can quickly build up in enclosed spaces. Places you shouldn’t be using your BBQ under include garages, marquees or gazebos with walls or curtains, or pergolas with a solid roof and sides.
Be mindful of neighbours
Try and place your BBQ away from any shared fences or near any of your neighbours open windows. If BBQ smoke regularly blows into a neighbours garden or windows, they could report it to the local council. Repeated or excessive BBQ smoke can be classed as a statutory nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. **
Safety first
Always take safety precautions when operating your BBQ, and that includes avoiding any distractions from people around you, drinking too much alcohol if you’re in charge, keeping children, pets and garden games a safe distance away, and never leaving the BBQ unattended. It’s always a good idea to have a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergency scenarios as well.
