BBQ the weekend follow these to stay safe

If you’re going to be biting into a burger or chomping on a hot dog this weekend make sure you follow our BBQ safety tips and enjoy your dinner and stay safeBBQ safetyTips for keeping safe from fire whilst enjoying your barbecueGeneral do’s and don’ts when using a barbecue • don’t cook if you’re affected by alcohol or prescription drugs • never leave barbecues unattended • never take a barbecue of any kind, or lit charcoal into an enclosed space like a tent or awning. The carbon monoxide it gives off could kill you • keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies • set up your barbecue on level ground away from bushes, fences, tents or other structures • leave plenty of room around your barbecue, so you don’t have to squeeze past it • be careful when cooking fatty foods, the dripping fat can cause the barbecue to flare up • make sure the coals are cool before you move the barbecue. Once cool, dispose of the ashes safely – never place them in dustbins For gas barbecue users • make sure the tap is turned off before changing the gas cylinder, do it outside in the open air or in a well ventilated place • when you’ve finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinders before you turn off the barbecue controls, this will use up any gas in the pipeline • if you suspect a leak to the gas cylinder or pipe work, brush soapy water around all joints and watch for bubbles. If you find a leaky joint, tighten it gently. Do not over-tighten • store gas cylinders outside, away from frost and direct sunlight