BBQ Safety
Important tips to help keep you safe this summer.
In the last year in UK campsites, seven Brits have died from carbon
monoxide poisoning and seventeen have been injured by bringing
BBQ's inside tents and enclosed spaces. Carbon monoxide is a highly
poisonous substance which is created when fossil fuels such as gas
and solid fuels like charcoal and wood fail to combust fully due to
a lack of oxygen. You can’t see it, taste it or smell it but it can
kill quickly with no warning.
If you’re planning on using a BBQ, whether it’s a disposable
one, gas or charcoal make sure you keep yourself safe and don’t put
yourself at risk of carbon monoxide
poisoning. Follow these top tips for BBQ safety:
- Never take a smouldering or lit BBQ into a tent, caravan or
cabin. Even if you have finished cooking your BBQ should remain
outside as it will still give off fumes for some hours after
use
- Never use a BBQ inside to keep you warm
- Never leave a lit BBQ unattended or while sleeping
- Place your cooking area well away from your tent. Always ensure
there is an adequate supply of fresh air in the area where the BBQ
is being used
- Only use your BBQ in accordance with the operating
instructions
- Remember the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning –
headaches, dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, collapse and loss of
consciousness.
If you’re using a gas BBQ or gas camping equipment follow
these extra tips to help you stay safe:
- Check that the appliance is in good order, undamaged and that
hoses are properly attached and undamaged. If in doubt get the
hoses replaced or don’t use it
- Make sure the gas taps are turned off before changing the gas
cylinder and do it in the open air
- Don’t over-tighten joints
- When you have finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinder
before you turn off the BBQ controls – this means any gas in the
pipeline will be used up
- Read the manufacturer’s instructions about how to check for gas
escapes from hoses or pipework, e.g. brushing leak detection
solution around all joints and looking for bubbles
- Never take a gas stove, light or heater into a tent, caravan or
cabin.
Take care this summer and don’t put yourself or your family at
risk.