Raising awareness of BBQ and camping equipment safety

Shropshire organisations are working together to raise awareness of precautions that can be taken when using barbecues and heating appliances during camping and caravanning trips.

Shropshire Council, Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, West Mercia Police, Shropshire County Primary Care Trust and the Shropshire Safer and Stronger Communities Partnership are combining efforts to highlight the potential risks, in particular the production of Carbon Monoxide (CO) gas, and help ensure people safely enjoy the outdoors.

Each year there are around 50 deaths from accidental CO poisoning in England and Wales.* A Department of Health estimate shows that approximately 4,000 people attend Accident and Emergency each year diagnosed with CO poisoning.

The dangers have been brought to the fore in Shropshire after a teenager died in a tragic incident at a county campsite in May. The cause is suspected to be CO poisoning after a disposable barbecue was left in the tent overnight.

Letters and posters providing information and advice on using barbecues and heating appliances have been sent to county camping and caravanning sites to share with visitors. During the coming months, the partners will continue to work to raise awareness of the risks, as well as offer further camping and caravanning safety advice.

The following precautions are advised when using disposable barbecues:

• Study the user instructions carefully and follow them closely.

• Never use the barbecue indoors, on balconies or in an enclosed space.

• Ensure that it is only used in very well ventilated areas.

• Never place the barbecue on anything flammable – the foil base gets very hot and causes a fire hazard.

Councillor Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council Cabinet member for health and well-being said:

“We are urging people to think about the potential risks before using barbecues and heating appliances while camping and caravanning.

“We need to do what we can to prevent any more tragedies and we hope to show that by taking precautions people can dramatically reduce the dangers of CO poisoning and fires.

“We do not want to deter people from going camping and caravanning – or using barbecues and heating appliances while enjoying the outdoors – but please keep safety in mind.”

West Mercia Police chief inspector, Sarah Wagstaff said:

“The dangers have been highlighted by the recent tragedy at a campsite in south Shropshire. The purpose of this campaign is to remind people to put safety first – to be aware of the possible risks and not to take chances.

“Enjoy the camping experience but remain alert to the potential dangers when using barbecues and heating appliances.”

Deputy fire chief officer John Redmond added:

“Although barbecues and cooking on naked flames are part of the enjoyment of camping they can be lethal if used in enclosed spaces; they should only be used in open, well ventilated areas.”

*Office of National Statistics

For further information go to:

CO Awareness – www.covictim.org

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents – www.ROSPA.com

The Camping and Caravanning Club – www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

The Shropshire Safer and Stronger Communities Partnership – click here.