Help prevent wildfires when using BBQs in Devon
10th June 2021
Categories: Visitor News

Disposable BBQs are dangerous and are very difficult to dispose of safely. Please avoid using disposable BBQs and choose a safer alternative. A gust of wind took a BBQ out of control last summer and caused a devastating wildfire in Kingswear, Devon.
- When using a portable BBQ, you should:
- Think carefully about your surroundings. Is it legal for you to have a BBQ where you are? Is the area ventilated? Are you away from anything that could catch fire, such as trees, dry grass, bushes and fences?
- Is the surface you’re putting the BBQ on safe? Disposable BBQs need to be placed on something flat which won’t catch alight e.g. stone/paving slabs.
- Always consider the wind. A gust of wind took a BBQ out of control last summer and caused a devastating wildfire in Kingswear, Devon.
- Stay with your BBQ at all times. Make sure you have a large bottle or bucket of water or sand nearby at all times, to control the fire or to put it out when you are finished.
- Dispose of your BBQ safely and thoughtfully. Coals and BBQ containers can stay hot for hours after you’ve finished cooking. Do not move a BBQ until it has cooled down and never throw it in a bin you’re sure that it is completely cold. Even a small amount of warmth can start a bin fire and cause significant damage.
- Never put burnt out BBQs or charcoal in your home or vehicle. It emits poisonous carbon monoxide.