Be fire safe this summer!

On a sunny summer’s day, there’s nothing like being outside and enjoying the weather, whether that’s having a barbecue with family and friends or just hanging out in your garden or balcony. Wherever you spend it, it’s always worth remembering a few safety tips:

Location is key
Set up your barbecue in an open area away from sheds, fences, plants, or garden waste, especially if there’s a breeze. And never use a barbecue on your balcony, on decking, indoors or in communal areas.

No unattended cooking 
Never leave a barbecue unattended. Make sure children and animals stay well away and always keep a bucket of water, sand, or a garden hose nearby for emergencies.

Time to cool 
Allow adequate time for proper cooling before disposing barbecue ashes. Empty them on to bare garden soil, not into dustbins or wheelie bins. If the ashes are hot, they can melt the plastic and cause a fire.

Stay balcony safe
It’s important to keep your balcony clear of flammable objects and electrical items. Always make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished in an ashtray and disposed of correctly.

Head over to our Fire Safety page for more tips here.