Barbecue safety this summer

Enjoy your barbecue safely this summer. Keep them away from buildings and vegetation, never leave them unattended, keep children and pets at a safe distance, and always make sure the barbecue is fully extinguished when finished.

If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service

Stay safe when cooking outdoors

Nothing beats a summer barbecue, but hot, dry weather can increase the risk of fires. By following a few simple safety tips, you can help keep yourself, your family and your community safe.

Before you start: Choose a safe location

  • Place your barbecue on flat, stable and level ground.
  • Never place a barbecue or disposable barbecue directly onto dry grass or vegetation
  • Keep it well away from sheds, fences, trees, plants and anything else that could catch fire.
  • Never use a barbecue on a balcony. 

Keep safety equipment nearby

Have one of the following close by in case of emergency:

  • a bucket of water
  • a bucket of sand
  • a garden hose

Protect Norwich's parks and green spaces

Do not use barbecues, including disposable barbecues, in parks, woodlands or other green spaces unless there is a designated barbecue area.

Consider taking a picnic instead. This helps protect people, homes, wildlife and the environment.

During the barbecue: Never leave it unattended

Always stay with your barbecue while it is lit or still hot.

Distractions can happen easily, especially when entertaining guests. Never leave a barbecue unattended, even for a short time.

Keep children and pets away

Create a safety zone around the barbecue.

Keep the following well away from the cooking area:

  • children
  • pets
  • garden games
  • outdoor toys

Avoid fire risks

  • Never light a barbecue in an enclosed space.
  • Do not use petrol, paraffin or other accelerants to start or revive a fire.
  • Take extra care during hot and dry weather.

Take care with alcohol

If you are responsible for cooking, avoid drinking alcohol while using the barbecue. This helps you stay alert and react quickly if something goes wrong.

After cooking: Make sure the barbecue is fully out

When you have finished cooking:

  • Allow the barbecue to cool completely.
  • Check that all embers and ashes are fully extinguished.
  • Dispose of cooled ashes safely.

Hot ashes can remain a fire risk for many hours. Smouldering ashes can also produce dangerous carbon monoxide.

If a fire starts

  • Move to a safe place.
  • Keep away from smoke and flames.
  • Call 999 immediately.
  • Do not attempt to tackle a large fire yourself.

If possible, provide clear details about the location to help emergency services respond quickly. 

Download the what3words app so you can help emergency services identify a precise location, especially in rural areas.

Feedback button