Tips to have a safe summer!

Unfortunately, during the summer Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service will attend many fires caused by barbecues. To help keep you and your home safe, they have some important tips to offer our residents.

Don't use barbecues on balconies

Having a barbecue on your balcony is not safe, and it puts you and your neighbours in danger:

• There is a high risk of fire
• Burning material can be carried by the wind into other flats
• Carbon monoxide is likely to collect in your home, causing CO poisoning

It is against Watford Community Housing's policy on fire safety to use barbecues on your balcony – your tenancy may be at risk if you do so.

Take care with disposable barbecues

Disposable barbecues are contained in an aluminium tray which can get hot enough to ignite any flammable material it is placed on, including wood and grass. If you do wish to use one, make sure it's somewhere safe.

Tips for safe barbecuing

• Make sure your barbecue is in good working order
• Ensure the barbecue is on a flat site, well away from a shed, trees or shrubs
• Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area
• Never leave the barbecue unattended 
• Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies
• Ensure the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it
• Do not use barbecues in an enclosed space
• Dispose of ashes in a fireproof container and damp down with water

Charcoal barbecues

• Use only enough charcoal to cover the base to a depth of about 50mm
• Only use recognised firelighters or starter fuel and only on cold coals
• Never put hot ashes straight into a dustbin or wheelie bin

Gas barbecues

• Make sure the tap is turned off before changing the gas cylinder
• Only change cylinders outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
• After cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before turning off at the controls to ensure any residual gas in the pipework is used up

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service can visit your home to offer advice on fire safety. 

Find out more or book now:

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/fire

0300 123 4096