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Barbecue Safely

Every summer around 40% of the U.K's population bring out their barbecues.

The smell of sizzling sausages and steaks drifts on the air, and the risks of food poisoning and other barbecue-related accidents increase.

These risks could be greatly reduced if the following simple precautions are taken.

Food Hygiene

Always wash your hands before starting the cooking

• wash salads and vegetables thoroughly
• ensure that tongs, skewers and forks are spotlessly clean
• ensure that the barbecue grill is thoroughly cleaned after use
• use separate utensils for raw and cooked food
• defrost frozen meat and poultry fully before cooking (ideally defrosting should be carried out in the fridge)
• keep raw and cooked food separate
• cover all food to protect it from insects and dust
• keep meat, salads and other perishable foods in the fridge until you are ready to use them - a cook box is suitable if a fridge is not available
• pre-cook poultry and then barbecue
• cook poultry, sausages, burgers and chopped or minced meats until the juices run clear

General Barbecue Safety

• site the barbecue away from fences, trees, hedges and wooden sheds
• choose a sheltered, level spot
• Never use petrol or paraffin on barbecues. Use fire-lighters or special starter fluid
• keep children and pets away from the barbecue
• use long-handled tongs to remove food from the glowing coals
• Never leave the barbecue unattended
• Always ensure that the barbecue is completely extinguished after use
• keep a bucket of water close by - just in case!