When planning a BBQ party, the main piece of kit is the BBQ itself. However large your event, we always recommend standing BBQs, either charcoal or propane fuelled, over disposable BBQs. Disposable BBQs are notorious for grass fires, harming wildlife, and waste. Invest in a more environmentally friendly solution, and improve the quality of your BBQ party.
BBQ parties are an excellent event for friends, families and guests. Sports and social clubs, bars, pubs, and community clubs love to take advantage of the Great British summer with a classic BBQ party event.
Stay safe during your BBQ party with these key BBQ safety tips.
6 Safety Tips for BBQ Parties
1. BBQs are for outside use only
Don’t operate a grill inside, underneath a balcony, in a garage, under a garden canopy, or in a tent. BBQs are designed for outdoor use and require plenty of ventilation. Smoke is dangerous to inhale, and any materials which hang over the heat of the flames can catch fire quickly. For safety, make sure the area over the BBQ is clear.
2. Check over your BBQ equipment
Propane and gas BBQs have different risks and potential faults than charcoal BBQs. A major issue is leaks or faults in the gas line of propane BBQs, this can cause gas to build up when the lid is closed. This would be highly dangerous if lit. So, brush soapy water around the joints and watch for bubbles.
Before use, ensure your BBQ is clean. Grills can build up with bacteria and grease, and will need cleaning after each use with a wire implement.
Charcoals can burn long after they are lit – leave charcoal BBQs up to 24 hours to cool. Don’t move the BBQ before you know it is cool; tipping over hot embers can be dangerous.
3. Be Prepared for BBQ Emergencies
BBQ safety requires proactivity. Wherever your BBQ may be, have a bucket of water or a bucket of sand ready in case of a fire. Also keep the BBQ on a level platform as to reduce risk of it tipping over.
Have a fire blanket ready to stop the direct flame of the grill. Never apply fire lighting liquid or gel directly onto flames.
Have somewhere available to put hot ashes – never put them in a bin as the heat can melt plastic.
4. Protect yourself from the flames
Ensure you have the correct tools ready. Use long handled forks and prongs to keep your hands safe from the flames. Wear gloves if you feel it’s necessary or are new to barbequing. Alternatively, have a fire extinguisher nearby which can deal with larger fires. Call the fire brigade if any property damage occurs.
5. Food Safety at a BBQ Party
At a BBQ there is a very real risk of food poisoning, due to undercooked meat on contamination. Food poisoning can be avoided by following good food hygiene practices. These include:
- Keep food chilled beforehand
- Defrost meat beforehand, do not attempt to cook frozen meat
- Washing hands thoroughly
- Cooking meat properly
- Avoiding cross-contamination
- Freeze leftovers, keeping them away from insects and the sun.
Allergies also need to be managed. Always ask about allergies or intolerances before preparing any food.
6. BBQ Party Event Insurance
The last thing organisers of a BBQ party want is to worry about the consequences of an accident, and the impact of a claim on their back pocket. Slips, trips, burns and falls are almost always to be expected at any good party, and it’s important to remain protected. Party expenses can go into their thousands, from the venue to BBQ catering, entertainment and all the extras, and legal fees from a claim should not be added to the pile.
Learn more about Party Insurance here and get a free quote for your BBQ party event.
Our liability insurance starts from as little as £25. – Quickly fill out your event details and receive an instant free quote online today.
