Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS) is reminding residents to take extra care when enjoying a BBQ this summer, following concerns over the number of fires linked to unsafe disposal.

Since 2020, WFRS has attended 85 BBQ-related fires in Warwickshire. Almost half (49%) of these incidents were caused by the unsafe disposal of disposable BBQs, hot ash, or coals. A further 22% were the result of BBQs being used in dangerous locations, such as too close to wooden fences, placed on plastic surfaces, or even used indoors.

With warmer weather increasing the risk of wildfires, which can cause serious damage to local wildlife, communities, and infrastructure, WFRS is urging people to think carefully about where they place their BBQ and how they dispose of it once finished.

BBQ safety tips from WFRS:

• Keep BBQs away from flammable objects like sheds, fences, and trees.
• Never leave a BBQ unattended while in use.
• Only BBQ outdoors – never indoors.
• Keep water nearby, such as a bucket or hose, in case of emergencies.
• Use disposable BBQs responsibly: follow safety instructions and avoid using them in parks, woods, or fields.
• Light BBQs safely using lighters or approved starter fuels – never petrol or paraffin.
• Allow ashes to cool completely before disposal, placing them in a metal container only when fully cold. Never dispose of them in bins, as heat can melt plastic and start fires.

Councillor Dale Bridgewater, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Fire, said:

“As the undisputed BBQ King, I know nothing beats the thrill of firing up the grill and serving up mouthwatering flavours. But even the mightiest pitmasters respect fire safety - because no masterpiece is worth risking safety (or burnt bangers!).”

“So let’s keep the flames in the grill, not where they shouldn’t be. Always supervise your BBQ, keep water nearby, and make sure it’s stone-cold out before you walk away. Now go forth, grill like a legend… and stay safe.”

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