Planning on the barbie getting a workout this festive season?
If so, be sure to check your barbecue is safe before turning on the gas or lighting the coals.
Poorly maintained barbecues and gas cylinders can easily start fires, but many of these incidents are preventable through simple safety checks and precautions.
Follow this checklist to ensure a safe barbecue season:
- Check gas cylinder expiry dates and make sure they're tested every ten years.
- Inspect gas cylinders, hoses and connections for signs of damage or wear.
- Check hose connections and control valves for gas leaks.
- Regularly clean your barbecue to avoid a build-up of fats and oils.
- Use barbecues outdoors in a well-ventilated area, at least 4m away from any combustible materials.
- Ensure coals are fully extinguished after use.
- During the Fire Danger Season, check for fire bans and any local council restrictions before lighting up – particularly for wood or solid fuel barbecues.
MFS Chief Officer Jeff Swann said a simple inspection of barbecues can prevent dangerous accidents.
"Barbecues left outdoors can deteriorate over time, so it’s critical to inspect gas cylinders, hoses, and connections for wear, and to clean your BBQ to remove any grease that could ignite," Mr Swann said.
"Regular cleaning, particularly of the drip trays, is a simple yet effective way to reduce fire risk."
For more tips, visit Barbeque Safety.
Information on barbecue use during bushfire season and Total Fire Ban days can be found on the CFS website.
