Tips and advice on how to barbecue safely this summer

Summer is the perfect season to light up the barbecue and enjoy juicy burgers and grilled vegetables. However, it's important not to overlook fire safety. In this blog post, we share valuable tips and guidelines to ensure that your barbecue parties are not only delicious but also safe.

Placement and Surroundings

When setting up your barbecue, it's important to choose the right location. Ensure that the barbecue is stable on a flat surface, away from overhanging branches, dry grass, or flammable materials.

Keep a sufficient distance between the barbecue and other objects such as furniture, umbrellas, or curtains. This minimizes the risk of fire and prevents unintended damage to property.

Barbecue Outside

Indoor barbecuing poses significant hazards, especially in terms of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. The use of open flames, flammable materials, and fuels such as charcoal or gas significantly increases the risk of fire. A small spark or unintended flame can quickly lead to an uncontrollable fire.

Furthermore, the lack of proper ventilation in an indoor space can lead to the accumulation of harmful gases, including carbon monoxide.

Supervision and Children

Never leave the barbecue unattended and ensure that children are supervised at all times. A burning barbecue can be very tempting for curious children, so keep them at a safe distance. It is also advisable to establish a separate "child-free zone" around the barbecue to prevent accidents.

Fuels and Ignition

Depending on the type of barbecue you have, use only suitable fuels such as charcoal, briquettes, or gas. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safely lighting the barbecue. Avoid using flammable liquids such as gasoline or alcohol.

Fire Extinguisher within Reach

It is always wise to have a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket within reach while barbecuing. In case a flame occurs unexpectedly, you can react quickly and effectively to bring the situation under control.

Burning Coals and Ashes

Allow the coals to cool completely before removing them. Store them in a metal bucket with a lid to prevent the ash from reigniting. Only dispose of the ash when you are certain it has cooled down completely.

What to Consider with a Gas Barbecue?

1. Gas Line and Connections Check
   Regularly inspect the gas lines and connections for any leaks. Use a solution of water and soap to check for a gas leak. If you see bubbles appearing, immediately shut off the gas supply and repair the leak before using the barbecue again.

2. Gas cylinder condition
   Ensure that the gas cylinder is in good condition before using it. Check for any damages, rust, or leaks. Never use a damaged gas cylinder and replace it if necessary.

3. Proper connection of the gas cylinder
   Check if the gas cylinder is correctly connected to the barbecue. Ensure that the gas regulator is securely attached to the gas cylinder and check for leaks around the connection. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for correctly connecting the gas cylinder.

4. Hose inspection
   Regularly inspect the gas hose for wear, cracks, or damages. Replace the hose if necessary. A damaged hose can lead to gas leaks and fire hazards.

5. Placement of the gas cylinder
   Make sure the gas cylinder is always upright and placed securely on a stable surface. Keep the gas cylinder at a safe distance from the heat source to prevent overheating.

6. Proper shutdown after use
   Ensure that you correctly shut down the gas barbecue after use. Close the gas supply and allow the remaining gas pressure in the lines to escape before storing the barbecue.

What should I consider with an electric barbecue?

1. Waterproofing
   Check if the electric barbecue is sufficiently waterproof. This is important to prevent water from entering the electrical components, which can be dangerous.
   Many electric barbecues have an IP rating (Ingress Protection), such as IPX4 or IPX5, which indicates the extent to which they are protected against water. A higher IP rating means better water resistance. For example, IPX4 means the barbecue is protected against splashes from all directions, while IPX5 means it is protected against water jets from all directions.

2. Extension cord
   If you use an extension cord, make sure it is suitable for outdoor use and has the capacity to handle the power of the barbecue. Do not use damaged cords and ensure they are kept away from hot surfaces.

3. Overheating
   Monitor the barbecue to prevent overheating. If the housing becomes too hot, it can pose a fire hazard. Ensure there is sufficient space for air circulation around the barbecue and do not place it on flammable materials.

4. Safety switch
   Check if the electric barbecue is equipped with a safety switch that automatically shuts off the power in case of a malfunction. This can help prevent electric shocks or fires.

5. Maintenance
   Keep the electric barbecue clean and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding maintenance. Regularly remove grease and food residues to prevent fires.

6. Supervision
   Always stay near the barbecue during use and do not leave it unattended. This ensures that you can respond quickly in case of any issues.