SAFETY

Cooking outside is a staple of summer weekends, but make sure you do it safely with our handy tips.

• Make sure your barbecue is in good working order

• Ensure the barbecue is on a flat site, well away from a shed, trees or shrubs

• Keep children, garden games and pets away from the cooking area

• Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies

• Ensure the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it

• Do not use a barbecue in an enclosed space

• Dispose of ashes in a fireproof container and damp down with water

• Do not use disposable barbecues in unauthorised open spaces or the countryside

• Never have a barbecue on a balcony, in a property or above ground level. The wind higher up can create unpredictable conditions

To find out more about fire safety visit: hertfordshire.gov.uk/fire-and-rescue