Gas BBQ's

BBQ's and Smokers

Have a safe barbecue!

CHOOSING A BARBECUE

There are many different types of barbecue on the market. Whichever one you choose, keep safety in mind.

• Besides the normal charcoal models, you can also purchase calor gas ones and do-it-yourself kits.

• Make sure your barbecue is sturdy as barbecues become deceptively hot and many cheaper models are extremely unstable.

• Look out for sharp edges and follow assembly instructions very carefully.

• Look for a barbecue with a fat collector to minimise smoke emissions and potential fire risk.

 BARBECUE POSITION

• Position the barbecue well away from fences and trees.

• Ensure the site is level and not situated in a position where the barbecue can be knocked over.

CONSIDER YOUR NEIGHBOURS

• Site the barbecue away from their homes.

• Do not disturb them with smoke or noise. (You can always invite them!)

LIGHTING UP

• Always use the correct materials and fuels for lighting the barbecue and observe the manufacturer's instructions.

• Look for child-proof caps when buying lighter fuel and always replace the cap after use.

• Never pour lighter fuel onto hot coals even if they appear to have gone out.

• Keep combustible materials and matches away from the barbecue.

FOOD PREPARATION AND COOKING

• Keep all utensils and plates for cooked foods separate from those used for uncooked food.

• All frozen food must be completely defrosted before cooking on a barbecue.

• Meat and other high risk foods should be kept in a refrigerator until needed.

• Barbecues tend to char food on the outside and leave the centre raw.

• All meat should be cooked thoroughly but portions of chicken and other poultry need particular care.

• It may be a good idea to pre-cook meats by conventional methods before finishing off on the barbecue.

• Food should not be left in the sunshine.

• To prevent contamination by insect pests, all food should be placed in sealed containers and be kept off the ground.

• Only kettle-style barbecues are suitable for cooking joints and whole chickens. Other types will not cook the meat thoroughly.

•  Use a meat thermometer to check that the meat is cooked properly.

REMEMBER THESE SAFETY POINTS

• To minimise accidents, ensure children are under constant supervision and never leave the barbecue unattended.

• Glassware is breakable and can be dangerous. Use plastic or disposable beakers and plates.

• Ensure suitable fire fighting equipment is close at hand, e.g. garden hose/bucket of sand.

• Dispose of refuse in a covered bin so as not to attract insects and vermin.

• Never put hot ashes directly into a dustbin. Wait until they have cooled down.