Barbecues & bonfires

Over 400,000 incidents are caused by outdoor fires each year, causing hundreds of injuries. Many of these are caused by careless use of barbecues and bonfires.

Barbecue safety advice

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Only use flammable liquids which are recommended for this task.
• Keep your barbecue a safe distance from fences, sheds, bushes and anything else which may catch fire.
• Don't take barbecues – especially disposable ones – onto moors, woodland or near undergrowth.
• Have a container of water on hand to douse flames.
• Don't wear loose clothing.
• Keep pets away.
• Make sure the barbecue is fully extinguished after use. Leave embers to cool down overnight before disposal.

Bonfires

• Build your bonfire downwind and well away from buildings, trees, bushes or other flammable materials.
• Clear away grass to form a circle of earth around the fire.
• Build the fire stack so than it collapses inward when burning.
• Watch for flying embers and sparks.
• Don't use petrol or paraffin to start the fire.
• Don't leave the fire unattended.
• Never throw aerosol or LPG containers on the fire.
• Ensure the fire is put out and cover the ashes with earth.

More information on bonfire safety & the law.