Choose the right spot
Always place your barbecue on a flat, stable surface away from fences, sheds, trees and buildings. Never barbecue on balconies and avoid using grills near open windows or under canopies. For those in flats or developments with communal areas, be sure to check if barbecues are allowed.

Keep it supervised
Never leave a lit barbecue unattended. A small flare-up can quickly become a dangerous situation. Make sure children and pets are kept at a safe distance, too.

Use the right equipment
Charcoal barbecues should be lit with firelighters or barbecue starter fuel, never petrol or paraffin. For gas barbecues, check gas connections before use and turn off the gas cylinder when you’re finished.

Dispose of coals carefully
Once it has cooled completely, wrap the used charcoal in foil and dispose of it in your general waste bin – never in recycling or garden waste. Avoid disposing of hot coals in bins, as this is a common cause of fires.

Be considerate to neighbours
Use dry charcoal and clean grills to minimise smoke. If you’re playing music while you cook, keep the volume reasonable and stick to daylight hours, especially in close-knit communities.

Keep water nearby
Just in case, always have a bucket of water, sand or a fire extinguisher to hand when using a barbecue.