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Barbecue safety

Barbecues are a great way to enjoy time outdoors, but they can cause serious injuries and fires if not used safely. Every year, fire and rescue services attend incidents linked to barbecues, including house fires and grass fires, and the health service treats many people who have been burned or otherwise injured. Planning ahead and following a few simple safety tips can lower the risks and help you enjoy your barbecue safely.

In 2025,

215 children

were hospitalised with serious barbecue‑related burns requiring specialist treatment; thousands more were treated for less severe injuries in other healthcare settings.

Buying a barbecue safely

Buy from a trusted retailer, such as well-known shops or verified online stores, that provide clear safety information and instructions. Do not be tempted by bargains on online marketplaces; they could be coming from overseas and may not meet UK safety standards.
Look for the CE or UKCA product safety marks that show the barbecue meets UK safety standards.
Choose the right type of barbecue for your space, for example, avoid large gas models in small gardens.

Before you start

Check your barbecue is in good condition with no obvious damage. If it has been stored over winter or for a long period, check for signs of wear, such as rust or cracks.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety warnings. Read the instructions and warnings carefully to make sure you understand how to use and extinguish safely.
Place your barbecue on a flat, stable, non-flammable surface, such as paving slabs or bricks.
Keep your barbecue away from buildings, fences, sheds, trees, garden furniture, grass, and dry leaves.
Never use a barbecue indoors or in enclosed spaces, such as tents, caravans, garages, balconies or awnings, as this can cause fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Use only suitable fire lighters or starter fuels, and never use petrol, paraffin or other accelerants.

While cooking

Never leave a barbecue unattended - always have a responsible adult keeping watch.
Keep children, pets, and other people at a safe distance.
Use long-handled tools and heat-resistant gloves to handle food and hot surfaces safely.
Wear suitable clothing and footwear to protect from sparks and spitting fat, tie back long hair and avoid wearing loose clothing that could catch fire.
Do not move a barbecue once it has been lit.
Never add starter fluid once alight.

More advice on food safety and hygiene: Food Standards Agency.

After cooking

Allow the barbecue to cool completely before moving, cleaning, or storing it to prevent burns or fires.
Never bring a smouldering barbecue inside for storage, as it can reignite and still produces carbon monoxide, which can lead to fatal carbon monoxide poisoning.
Dispose of used coals and ashes safely and never put them in the bin while still hot, as hot ashes can reignite.

Top tips

Buy from a trusted retailer and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Check your barbecue is in good condition before use.
Never use a barbecue indoors or in an enclosed space.
Never leave a barbecue unattended. Fires can start quickly.
Keep children, pets and games away from the barbecue area.
Don't use accelerants such as petrol or paraffin.
Place barbecues on a stable, non-flammable surface and away from fences, sheds, trees and garden waste.
Allow coals and ashes to cool completely before disposal.

What to do in an emergency

If a barbecue or surrounding area is on fire, move away immediately and call 999. Do not attempt to tackle the fire or move the barbecue.
For burns, cool the affected area under cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Seek medical attention if the burn is serious.
If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure (symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea and confusion), move to fresh air immediately and seek urgent medical attention. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be life-threatening.
If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the supply if it is safe to do so, avoid any sources of ignition, and move away from the area before seeking help.

Gas barbecues

Gas cylinders should be stored outside, securely, and away from direct sunlight and frost.
Before using, check the valves are properly sealed with no leaks (for example, by testing with soapy water) and that all hoses, connections, and cylinders are in good condition.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lighting, using, and switching off.
Turn off the gas supply fully after use and make sure the fire is out before disconnecting the gas supply.
If you suspect a gas leak, stop using immediately and move to a safe distance.

Disposable barbecues

Only use where permitted - if you are planning to use a disposable barbecue in a public place, check that this is allowed.
Place on a stable, non-flammable surface away from dry vegetation and combustible materials.
Remember that disposable barbecues can remain hot for several hours after use and the area under the disposable barbecue, especially on sand, will become extremely hot and take a long time to cool. To speed up the cooling process, thoroughly drench both the barbecue and the surrounding ground with water.
Don’t put the used barbecue or burnt charcoal in your car or tent. When barbecues cool they release deadly carbon monoxide.

Garden safety

Being aware of common garden hazards and taking appropriate precautions can reduce the risk of accidents and help keep everyone safe while enjoying outdoor spaces

Find out more