Fire Service Sounds Alarm on Disposable BBQs This Holiday
The Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to think twice before firing up disposable BBQs this holiday season. Each year, these seemingly harmless grills spark preventable blazes that wreak havoc on the environment and drain emergency resources.
Disposable BBQs: Deadly Danger in Disguise
Wayne Rawlins, area manager for risk, warns: “Disposable BBQs are not really disposable. They’re a fire hazard during use and even when being thrown away. Bin fires and scorched vegetation are common outcomes.”
Rawlins recalls a shocking incident in Kingswear, Devon, where a disposable BBQ caused a wildfire. “Despite many precautions, the wind blew flames onto dry grass. The fire quickly spiralled out of control, burning for three agonising days.”
“The safest place to enjoy a BBQ is at home, but you must follow sensible safety tips. Remember, all fire carries risk.”
Spring: Wildfire Season Peaks
Spring is when vegetation is driest and dead leaves pile up, creating a tinderbox. Wildfires spike, sucking precious firefighter resources away from other emergencies.
One of the worst fires, Woodbury Common in 2017, saw over 200 firefighters and 30 fire engines – nearly a quarter of the local fleet – battling flames simultaneously.
How to Safely Use Disposable BBQs
- Check if BBQs are even allowed where you’re going.
- Keep away from dry grass, trees, bushes, and fences.
- Place your BBQ on fireproof surfaces such as paving slabs. The bottom heats up dangerously and can ignite surfaces.
- Watch out for gusts of wind that can spread sparks and flames.
- Never leave your BBQ unattended. Keep water or sand nearby to douse flames instantly.
- Dispose of BBQs only once completely cooled. Coals and containers can stay hot for hours, sparking bin fires if discarded too soon.
- Never throw burnt-out BBQs or coals inside vehicles – toxic carbon monoxide continues to emit long after flames die down.
Stay sharp and stay safe this holiday. One careless spark can cause chaos for weeks – or even days – in Devon and Somerset countryside.
