London Fire Brigade makes BBQ plea ahead of weekend of hot weather

A firefighter tackles a grass fire in Hackney last year. Photograph: Millfields User Group

London Fire Brigade is reminding people of the increased risk of barbecues this weekend, urging Londoners to act responsibly following the first heat-health alert of the year.

The warning, issued by the UK Health Security Agency and Met Office, comes as temperatures are expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius.

London Fire Brigade is reminding people of the increased risk of barbecues – both outdoors and at home.

Barbecues are banned in Hackney’s parks because they are a fire hazard, damage the grass, and worsen pollution.

Grass fires are also a concern. Only last year, a local orchard was damaged in a blaze thought to be started by children messing about with fire.

London Fire Brigade’s assistant commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: “Of course we want everyone to be able to enjoy the weather but this has to be done safely.

“If you are visiting an open park or space this weekend, please do not take a disposable barbecue with you – they can cause grass fires, especially in hot weather when the ground is dry.

“Last year, we saw how unpredictable grass fires can be and how quickly they can spread causing a significant amount of damage.”

Barbecues should also never be used indoors or on balconies, which Goulbourne said can contain combustible materials.

He added: “If you are having a barbecue, never leave it unattended and be careful where you position it.

“Try to keep it on a level ground and keep it well away from anything flammable like sheds, fences, trees or tents.”

As well as disposable barbecues, discarded smoking materials and leftover rubbish also pose a big risk.

People are being asked to ensure their rubbish is placed securely inside a bin or to take it home with them.