Barbecues during hot weather leads to surge in fires

Firefighters have issued a warning about barbecues after a surge in the number of fires over the weekend.

There were seven separate fires caused by barbecues in West Sussex during the hot weather. Crews dealt with incidents at Goring-By-Sea, Shoreham, Bepton, Crawley, Petworth, Cuckfield and Salvington

The fires were all caused by hot ashes and coals that weren't properly discarded.

The fire service has given the following advice to keep barbecues safe:

• For disposable barbecues - make sure the coals are completely cold before throwing them away

• Place the barbecue on clear level ground where it will not tip over

• Use approved barbecue fuel or firelighters to light it, never petrol or paraffin

• Keep barbecues away from the house, shed, fences, garden furniture or overhanging trees and shrubs

• Don't leave your barbecue unattended at any time

• Empty any spent ash on to bare soil, not into a dustbin