As warmer evenings set in and gardens fill with the smell of grilled food, barbecues quickly become a go-to way to enjoy the sunshine. But while outdoor cooking feels relaxed, it still involves open flames, high heat and raw food - a combination that needs careful handling. There is also a less visible risk: barbecues can produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colourless, odourless gas that can be fatal and may continue to linger even after the grill has cooled.
Rising Incidents with Rising Temperatures
Fire crews say incidents tend to rise with the temperature. According to the London Fire Brigade, there were 127 barbecue-related fires during April and May between 2020 and 2025 - highlighting how quickly things can go wrong. Deputy assistant commissioner Richard Field from the London Fire Brigade said: “Using a barbecue on a balcony could risk setting your building on fire or spreading embers across a wide area.”
Position It Right
One of the most important safety steps comes before the barbecue is even lit. Experts recommend placing grills at least three metres away from buildings, fences and trees, and only using them on flat, stable ground. Using barbecues on balconies, in garages or inside tents is strongly discouraged due to both fire risk and the potential for carbon monoxide build-up. Field also advises creating a clear 'no-go zone' around the barbecue, particularly where children or pets are present.
Handle Fuel with Care
Whether using gas or charcoal, how you light and manage the barbecue can make a significant difference. Gas users should always open the lid before lighting to prevent a dangerous build-up of gas. Hoses and connections should also be checked for leaks - a quick spray of soapy water can help spot bubbles. For charcoal barbecues, fire crews warn against using petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids. These can cause sudden and uncontrollable flare-ups. “Using accelerants to try and get the fire started could easily lead to an out-of-control blaze that could quickly spread,” Field added. Barbecues should also never be left unattended, even for a few minutes.
Food Safety Matters
It's not just fire that poses a risk when barbecuing - food hygiene can also easily slip, increasing the chances of food poisoning. Experts recommend keeping raw and cooked foods separate, using different utensils and plates, and making sure meat is cooked thoroughly. Undercooked food, particularly chicken and sausages, is one of the most common causes of barbecue-related illness, so it's important not to rely on guesswork - a digital food thermometer is the safest way to check. They also recommend following the 'two-hour rule', meaning food should not be left out for more than two hours, or just one hour in hotter weather.
Public Spaces Rules
People planning to barbecue in parks are being urged to check local rules before setting up, as many areas ban disposable barbecues due to the fire risk. The London Fire Brigade warns that disposable barbecues can remain dangerous long after use, with coals staying hot for hours and potentially igniting dry grass if not disposed of properly.
Proper Shutdown
Once the food is cooked, the safety steps are not over. Gas barbecues should be switched off immediately, while charcoal grills should have vents closed to cut off oxygen. Coals can stay dangerously hot for hours, so allow at least 24-48 hours before disposing of ash - ideally in a metal container. When cleaning, experts also recommend avoiding traditional wire brushes, as loose bristles can end up in food. Safer alternatives include foil balls or bristle-free tools.
Stay Safe
While barbecues are a great way to make the most of warmer weather, fire crews say a few simple precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents. As Richard Field puts it: “There's nothing better than having a barbecue to celebrate the returning sunshine… but we also want you to stay safe.” So before you fire up the grill this weekend, take a moment to check your setup, your fuel and your food. A quick once-over could be the difference between an enjoyable evening - and an avoidable emergency.
