Barbeque Safety Checklist

Summer Barbecue Safety: Enjoy Your BBQ the Safe Way

A summer barbecue should be an enjoyable way to relax and spend time with family and friends. Our goal at Ezra Safety Group is to support you in making sure your barbecue is safe; you can do this by following this simple guide:

Here are some actions you can carry out to help reduce the risk:

Before You Start

  • Check your barbecue: Make sure it is in good working order. Look out for signs of rust, damage to gas hoses, or loose connections.

  • Choose a safe location: Set up on a flat, stable surface well away from anything flammable such as bushes, trees, fences, sheds, or garden furniture. Never use a barbecue indoors, in tents, or in enclosed spaces like garages, as this can cause a build-up of toxic carbon monoxide.

During Cooking

  • Keep people and pets clear: Ensure that children, pets, and any non-cooks stay well away from the cooking area.

  • Stay with your barbecue: Never leave it unattended while lit.

  • Light safely:

    • For charcoal barbecues, only use recommended firelighters or starter fuels — never petrol or other accelerants, as they can cause dangerous flare-ups.

    • For gas barbecues, always check connections before you start. When changing gas cylinders, turn off the tap and do it outside in the open air, away from naked flames.

  • Be ready for emergencies: Keep a bucket of water, bucket of sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby in case you need to deal with an unexpected fire.

After Cooking

  • Cool down properly: Let the barbecue cool completely before attempting to move it. Hot embers can easily reignite if disturbed.

Important Note: The Danger of Disposable Barbecues

Disposable barbecues can be convenient, but they pose serious fire risks — particularly when used carelessly in parks, forests, or countryside areas.

  • Wildfire risk: Disposable barbecues have been linked to devastating wildfires, especially in hot, dry weather. Even when they appear to be out, they can retain enough heat to ignite dry grass or leaves hours later.

  • Proper disposal is vital: Never leave a disposable barbecue unattended or assume it is safe to throw away immediately after use. Always fully extinguish it with water, allow it to cool, and dispose of it responsibly in designated bins.

  • Respect local rules: Many parks, beaches, and public spaces now ban disposable barbecues altogether to protect wildlife and natural landscapes. Always check local regulations before lighting up.

At Ezra Safety Group, we encourage everyone to enjoy the summer — but please do so safely. A few simple precautions can help prevent injuries, fires, and damage to our beautiful surroundings.

Stay safe and have a fantastic barbecue season!