We’re reminding people to be aware of Carbon Monoxide risks if you’re planning to break out your BBQ over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Ensuring safety is top of the menu is vital when it comes to enjoying outdoor cooking.
With warmer weather encouraging families and friends to gather in gardens and outdoor spaces, the risks associated with BBQs – particularly Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning – can easily be overlooked.
CO is a colourless, odourless gas that can be fatal, and BBQs can emit it even after they’ve gone out and cooled down. It’s vital that everyone BBQs in open, well-ventilated areas.
Our Social Strategy Programme Manager, Laura Ratcliffe, said: “With the chance of sunnier weather in the months ahead we want people to be able to enjoy it safely.
“If anyone is planning to BBQ this Bank Holiday it’s vital to keep BBQs and woodfire cooking devices outside and in a well-ventilated area. Never bring them into your home or cook in an enclosed area.
“Also, if you’re giving your gas fired BBQ its first sizzle of the season, make sure you check it before use and follow manufacturer’s instructions.”
We’re urging people to follow the BBQ Safety Checklist
- Never bring a BBQ inside your home, tent, awning, or any enclosed area.
- Remember that BBQs and outdoor cooking equipment can emit CO even after extinguishing and once cold to the touch.
- Always use your BBQ in an open space with plenty of ventilation, keeping it well away from tents and sleeping areas.
If Using LPG/Bottle Gas BBQs
- Check your equipment before use. Ensure everything is in good working order, hoses are securely attached and undamaged.
- Only use and change gas canisters in an open, well-ventilated area. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and turn off the supply properly before changing canisters.
We’re also reminding people to stay alert to the signs of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning which can include headaches, feeling sick, breathlessness and dizziness.
It’s important to know what to do if you suspect CO poisoning from any outdoor cooking equipment or internal gas appliances in your home:
- Open all windows and doors immediately if suspect it’s caused by an internal gas appliance.
- Go outside into the fresh air straight away.
- Seek urgent medical attention.
- Call 0800 111 999 – the free National Gas Emergency Service.
A team of trained advisors at the National Gas Emergency Service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. As part of this free service, they will guide callers through the steps to take, arrange for an emergency engineer visit, and carry out a full safety check, making the situation safe and offering expert advice.
Check out our free Carbon Monoxide advice.