Family BBQ Safety Tips

With daylight saving giving us more evening sun, many of us will be using the extra hours to fire up the barbecue and get family and friends together.

Safekids New Zealand, the New Zealand Fire Service and Burns Support Group Charitable Trust, want to share some important safety reminders when cooking outdoors, particularly when children are present.

• Supervise children around grills. If using a public grill, close the barbecue fence if there is one.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children. Teach children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately.
• Before using a grill, check the connection between the gas tank and the fuel line. Test for leaks using soapy water. Do not overfill the gas tank.
• Dispose of hot coals properly – douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers – they can take up to five days to cool.
• Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas – carbon monoxide could be produced and can be fatal.
• Make sure your barbecue is completely extinguished when finished.
• Alcohol and fire don’t mix – Know your limits and drink responsibly.

“Burn injuries are preventable, and by being responsible around the barbecue and watching out for our kids, we can enjoy a fun and injury-free summer gathering,” said Ann Weaver, Safekids New Zealand Director.

For more fire safety advice outside and inside your home, visit www.fire.org.nz. For more burns prevention safety tips, visit www.safekids.org.nz.