London Fire Brigade advises:-

o Avoid using petrol or paraffin to get the barbecue going, which can flare up unexpectedly.

o Stick to approved barbecue fuel or firelighters, and once the fire is lit, don't add any more liquid fuel.

o Keep matches, lighters or other materials in a safe place, away from children and any garden games area.

o Barbecues must be kept level so they are not knocked over, and away from anything inflammable like sheds, fences, shrubs or chairs.

o Children and others should be kept away from the fire.

o Consider some kind of a safe barrier around the barbecue.

o Don't use too much charcoal.

o Take care when cooking fatty foods.

o Douse the fire with fire when cooking is completed.

o Don't attempt to move the barbecue until it has cooled down.

o If using a gas cylinder make sure the controls and cylinder valve is turned off before changing the cylinder.

o Change the cylinder in the open air if possible.

o When you have finished cooking turn off the gas cylinder before the barbecue to use up any residual gas in the pipe.

o If you suspect a leak to the gas cylinder connections or pipework, brush soapy water around all joints and watch for bubbles.

o Never over-tighten a connection.

o Store the cylinders outside, protecting them from frost and sunlight.

o Do not store more spare cylinders than you need.