Make sure barbecues are placed on level ground where they will not tip over
Keep barbecues away from your home, sheds, fences, garden furniture, trees, shrubs and tents
Don’t drink too much alcohol if you are in charge of the cooking
Don't set up the barbecue in a place where people have to squeeze past it
Keep children, pets, and garden games well away from the cooking area
Never leave the barbecue unattended
Follow the safety instructions provided with disposable barbecues
Only use approved barbecue fuel or fire lighters - never use petrol or paraffin
After you’ve finished cooking
When you have finished cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before you try to move it
Empty the cold ash onto bare garden soil – never put it in the dustbin
Where possible, keep a bucket of water, sand, or a garden hose nearby for emergencies
Tips for gas barbecues
Take extra care when turning bottled gas barbecues on and off
Make sure the controls and the gas cylinder valve are turned off before you change the cylinder
Make sure all joints are tightened, safe, and secure
Change the gas cylinder in the open air
When you have finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before the barbecue controls; this makes sure any leftover gas in the pipe is used up
Store your gas cylinders outside and protected from frost and sunlight
Never store gas cylinders under the stairs - if there is a fire they might explode and block your escape route
If you think there might be a leak in the gas cylinder connections or pipe, brush soapy water over all of the joints and watch out for bubbles
If you have a leaky joint, try to tighten it (but don't over tighten it) and test for bubbles again. If unsure do not use the barbecue – seek specialist advice
Tips for disposable barbecues
It must be placed on an even surface on either bricks or paving slabs. Never place it directly onto grass or wooden garden furniture.
Place disposable barbecues well away from the house, shed or fences.
Do not use disposable barbecues near or on public benches.
If you're using a disposable barbecue ensure it has cooled before putting it in the bin. To avoid starting a fire you should allow it to cool for several hours and then consider pouring water over it to make sure it's out.
