Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is encouraging residents to follow barbecue safety advice to avoid serious ‘mis-steaks’ during the October long weekend celebrations.
FRNSW Acting Commissioner, Paul McGuiggan, said simple precautions and a little bit of planning helps to avoid accidents, prevent fires and keep loved ones safe.
Reduce the risk of injury or damage
“Have your barbecue set up in an area that has been cleared of vegetation, on a firm, level base sheltered from the wind and away from structures such as your house, garden shed and fences,” Acting Commissioner McGuiggan said.
“Have a supply of water close by and, if possible, a fire extinguisher as well. In the event of a fire, we’ll be there…but every second counts and you can reduce your risk of injury or damage by following some simple steps.”
Top barbecue safety tips
- Service and maintain the barbecue correctly, following the manufacturer’s instructions for start-up and shut-down procedures
- Check gas cylinders for expiry date, rust or damage and make sure connections are clear and fit properly before lighting
- After use, make sure the gas is turned off at the cylinder
- Never put flammable liquid on a barbecue
- Check Total Fire Ban details before lighting the barbecue
- Keep children away from the barbecue
- Make sure lighters and matches are in a secure place
- If a gas leak occurs, and it is safe to do so, shut off the cylinder immediately and allow any gas to disperse
- After use, make sure the gas is turned off at the cylinder
- Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency
