Warning after fires started by disposable barbecues

Fire crews from Exmouth have been called to two separate incidents in the last few days involving disposable barbecues being placed in plastic bins when they were still hot.

In the early hours of 22 July, crews were called to Exmouth Cricket Club, Queens Drive, after reports of a fire on the outside of the building. The fire damaged part of the tea rooms and crews were able to stop the fire spreading further into the building. 

Investigations found that a disposable barbecue had been placed in a bin while still hot and, over a period of time, had burnt through the bin and spread to the building.

On Saturday night (20 July), fire crews were called to Orcombe Point after two smouldering barbecues had been placed in a plastic bin.

Fire service spokesman Paul Slaven said: “People should always ensure that disposable barbecues are cooled before they are discarded.

“Also, if barbecues have been used on the beach, ensure the sand directly under the barbecue is cooled after the barbecue has been removed.

“Never leave a barbecue unattended or take one inside a home or tent, as carbon monoxide can kill.”

For more information on fire safety, please visit the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service website