Humberside Fire and Rescue Service has backed a new temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues amid concerns they could pose a significant risk to public safety due to heatwave conditions. The news follows a number of recent fires in grasslands and fields across the Humber region and around the country.
This week’s meeting of the government’s emergency Cobra committee, convened to coordinate the response to the prolonged spell of hot and dry weather. The single-use barbecues “have been the cause of a number of serious wildfires across the country over the summer months”, advice published online by the government said.
The government website added: “Disposable barbecues cannot be considered a safe product in the context of the ongoing weather and environmental conditions and must not be made available for sale either in store or online at the current time.”
The ban has been welcomed by the Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, who have also offered advice to residents on how to stay safe during this summer’s extended heatwave. A spokesperson said: “We welcome the government’s decision of a temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues, particularly during periods of prolonged hot, dry weather when the risk of wildfire is significantly increased.
“Disposable barbecues present several hazards. They can remain extremely hot for hours after use and have been linked to grass and wildfire incidents across the country. They are also often left behind in parks, open countryside and coastal areas, creating risks for others, wildlife and the wider environmental impact.
“Our focus is on public safety and is supportive of measures that help reduce the number of preventable fires and protect communities, countryside and emergency services.”
Some of the wildfires burning across the country will have been started by disposable barbecues, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has previously told the media.
With very dry conditions and continued warm weather increasing the risk of fires spreading quickly, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service underlined common sense advice for residents:
- If using a barbecue at home, place it on a flat, stable surface well away from sheds, fences, trees and shrubs, and never leave it unattended.
- Keep children and pets away from cooking areas and have water or sand nearby in case of emergency.
- Allow barbecues and ashes to cool completely before disposal. Never place hot ashes in wheelie bins or plastic containers.
By: Paul Drury-Bradey, LDRS
