Fire Safety Advice – Outside Your Home

 

BBQ safety

• Before using a grill, check the connection between the gas tank and the fuel line.
• Do not overfill the gas tank.
• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.
• Be careful when using lighter fluid.
• Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
• Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately.
• Supervise children around outdoor grills.
• 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.
• Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas – carbon monoxide could be produced.
• Don’t light fires in a fire ban area – you could be liable for whatever damage is caused.
• And finally, make sure your barbecue is completely extinguished when finished.

 

Gas cylinders

• Always ensure there is adequate ventilation.
• Store and install cylinders in an upright position with the valve uppermost.
• Be careful when changing cylinders. Make sure the valve on the empty cylinder is turned off before disconnecting and do not turn on the valve of the full cylinder until it is securely connected.
• When storing, ensure that cylinders are either secured on deck away from hatches so any escaping gas disperses, or are placed in a properly designed and ventilated container above the water line.

 

information courtesy of Fire and Emergency New Zealand