Avoid BBQ ‘mis-steaks’ this October long weekend -
Published: 02 Oct 2024 09:48am
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is encouraging residents to follow barbecue safety advice to avoid serious ‘mis-steaks’ during October long weekend celebrations.
FRNSW Acting Commissioner, Paul McGuiggan, said simple precautions and a little bit of planning helps to avoid accidents, prevent fires and keep loved ones safe.
“Have your barbecue set up in an area that has been cleared of vegetation, on a firm, level base sheltered from the wind and away from structures such as your house, garden shed and fences,” Acting Commissioner McGuiggan said.
“Have a supply of water close by and, if possible, a fire extinguisher as well.
“In the event of a fire, we’ll be there…but every second counts and you can reduce your risk of injury or damage by following some simple steps.”
Top barbecue safety tips include:
- Service and maintain your barbecue correctly, following the manufacturer’s instructions for start up and shut down procedures
- Check gas cylinders for expiry date, rust or damage and make sure connections are clear and fit properly before lighting
- After use, make sure the gas is turned off at the cylinder
- Never put flammable liquid on a barbecue
- Check Total Fire Ban details before lighting your barbecue
- Keep children away from the barbecue
- Make sure lighters and matches are in a secure place
- If a gas leak occurs, and it is safe to do so, shut off the cylinder immediately and allow any gas to disperse
- After use, make sure the gas is turned off at the cylinder
- Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency
Barbecue fire safety fact sheets can be downloaded at www.fire.nsw.gov.au and Total Fire Ban information at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au For further advice or information, contact your nearest FRNSW station.
Updated: 02 Oct 2024 09:53am
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Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
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