BBQ Blaze Destroys Storeroom – No Injuries
A single-story rear storeroom was gutted by fire, believed to have been sparked accidentally by a barbecue. Luckily, eight people escaped before the fire brigade arrived, and no injuries were reported.
Barbecue Sparks Blaze in London
The London Fire Brigade rushed to the scene shortly after midnight. Firefighters from Park Royal, Willesden, Wembley, and Acton battled the flames, bringing the fire under control by 2:21 AM.
A brigade spokesperson warned, “We don’t want to ruin people’s fun, but barbecues can be dangerous if not handled responsibly. Never use a barbecue, disposable or not, indoors or on your balcony.”
Fire Brigade Issues Vital BBQ Safety Tips
The spokesperson added, “Be careful when moving barbecues because they can stay hot for hours. They also emit carbon monoxide fumes well after being turned off, so don’t bring them indoors.”
Five Ways to Keep Your BBQ Safe
- Never use a barbecue indoors or on balconies — including disposable grills.
- Place BBQs on level ground, away from sheds, fences, trees, or tents.
- Use firelighters instead of petrol, paraffin, or other flammable liquids.
- Supervise children closely to avoid trips and burns.
- Keep pets away from the grill to prevent accidents and surprise snatches.
This near-disaster is a stark reminder: BBQs are a serious safety risk if mishandled. Stay safe and grill smart!