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Be alert to outdoor fire hazards

It is important to be aware of the fire hazards leisure activities such as barbecues, camping and caravanning can pose. Dry ground in the summer adds to the dangers – but care should be taken at all times of the year.

Barbecue safety

To barbecue safely and avoid injuries or damage to property, follow these simple tips:

• make sure your barbecue is in good working order
• keep a bucket of water or sand, or a garden hose nearby, in case of emergencies
• make sure your barbecue site is flat and away from sheds, fences, trees and shrubs
• use only enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue to a depth of about 5cms (2 inches)
• never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbecue; use only recognised lighters or starter fuel, on cold coals
• keep children, garden games and pets away from the cooking area
• never leave the barbecue unattended
• after cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before trying to move it; empty ashes onto bare garden soil, not into the bin
• barbecues should never be lit indoors

Additional tips for gas barbecues

• take particular care when turning bottled-gas barbecues on and off
• make sure the tap is off before changing the gas cylinder
• change cylinders in the open air if possible – or open doors and windows to ensure good ventilation
• when you’ve finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before you turn off the barbecue controls – this ensures that any gas in the pipeline is used up

If you suspect a leak to the gas cylinder or pipework:

• brush soapy water around all joints and look for bubbles
• if you find a leaky joint, try to tighten it

but

• be careful not to over-tighten joints

How you store the gas cylinders for your barbecue is also important. They should be kept outside, but away from direct sunlight and frost. Don’t keep more cylinders than you need and don’t store them under the stairs in your house – if you were to have a fire, the stairs are likely to be your escape route.

Camping safety

Follow these basic precautions while camping to reduce the risk of fire:

• ensure that caravans and tents are at least six metres apart
• make sure you know what the fire-fighting arrangements on the site are and where the nearest telephone is
• keep a torch handy for emergencies – don’t use a lit candle

If you stay in a caravan:

• fit a smoke detector
• take special care when cooking – don’t leave pans unattended
• keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children
• if you smoke, use suitable metal ashtrays – and never smoke in bed
• don’t leave children alone inside
• don’t block air vents – this can be fatal
• keep a fire extinguisher inside, by the door
• keep gas cylinders outside your caravan
• before going to bed (or leaving the caravan) turn off all appliances
• never use a cooker or heater whilst your caravan is moving
• change gas cylinders only when they are completely empty

and if you suspect a gas leak:

• turn off all appliances and the main cylinder valve
• open all doors and windows
• do not smoke or operate electrical switches

If you stay in a tent:

• never use candles in or near a tent – torches are safer
• keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children
• flammable liquids and gas cylinders should be kept outside the tent and away from children
• oil-burning appliances shouldn’t be used in or around tents
• keep cooking appliances away from the walls and roof and anywhere they can easily be knocked over – they should not be used at all in small tents
• keep your cooking area clear of flammable material, including long grass
• don’t smoke inside tents
• have an escape plan and be prepared to cut your way out of your tent if there is a fire
• make sure everyone knows how to put out a clothing fire – read the ‘Stop, Drop and Roll’ advice below

If there's a fire:

• fires in tents and caravans spread very quickly – get everyone out straight away
• call the fire and rescue service and give the exact location – give a map reference if possible; otherwise provide a nearby landmark, such as a farm or pub, to help them find you

More useful links

• What to do if there's a fire
• Planning a trip (disabled people section)