Victorian fire services are reminding footy fans to be fire-safe this AFL Grand Final long weekend
As footy fans gear up for backyard gatherings this AFL Grand Final long weekend, Victorian fire services are reminding residents to ensure their fire pits and barbecues are set up safely.
Fire pits have become a popular centrepiece for backyard get-togethers, but if not handled appropriately, they can cause serious injuries and start fires.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan says that while fire pits are great for a bit of warmth, careful consideration is key to keeping everyone safe.
"Always put them on a flat, non-flammable surface and check the fire danger rating before lighting up," Jason said.
"Make sure to give your fire pit plenty of room with at least three metres of space around it in all directions.
"Be sure to keep at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby, and make sure an adult is supervising the fire at all times."
Barbecues are also a big part of AFL Grand Final celebrations. However, if not in proper working order, barbecues can pose a serious fire risk.
Last financial year, CFA attended 285 barbecue fires in regional response areas.
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) Deputy Commissioner Community Safety Joshua Fischer said that for many people the AFL Grand Final weekend also meant their first barbecue of the season.
"Before you fire up your barbecue this long weekend, ensure your grill is in good working condition and make a simple check for gas leaks,” DC Fischer said.
“Just a quick spray of soapy water on the connections and hoses can reveal any leaks. If there is a leak, you’ll see small bubbles form when the gas is turned on.
“Give yourself some clearance from walls, fences and other flammable materials to be safe and make sure you never use your barbecue indoors.
“Don’t let a fire emergency be an unexpected upset – make sure your set-up is safe so you can enjoy the long weekend without any surprises,” DC Fischer said.
Case Study
FRV and CFA firefighters recently responded to a house fire in Patterson Lakes which saw a property significantly damaged due to a charcoal barbecue catching fire.
On Sunday, 15 September, callers to Triple Zero (000) reported it had caught alight, before spreading to the two-storey house, with large flames issuing from the property.
Crews worked together to attack the fire, and thankfully, nobody was injured. The cause of the fire was determined to be sparks from a charcoal barbecue, which spread to nearby furniture and the house.
Fire pit safety points:
- Set up your fire pit on a stable, non-flammable surface with 3 metres of clear space around and above the fire.
- Always check local fire restrictions and avoid lighting fires during the CFA's Fire Danger Period or Total Fire Ban days.
- Never leave a fire pit unattended. Use water to fully extinguish it before walking away or going indoors.
- Keep at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby, and ensure a responsible adult always supervises the fire.
- On Total Fire Ban days, using any fire pit or solid-fuelled device is illegal, with severe fines and penalties for violations.
- Never use petrol on an open fire.
Barbecue safety points:
- Check for gas leaks by spraying soapy water on the connections and hoses. If there is a leak, bubbles will appear when you turn on the gas.
- Newly manufactured LPG gas appliances are fitted with a safer gas connection to prevent gas from being released if the connection is not properly fitted.
- Always exchange cylinders using reputable suppliers.
- Never use your barbecue indoors, and ensure there is enough clearance from walls, fences, and other flammable items.
- If a fire occurs, turn off the gas at the cylinder or meter, but only if safe to do so. In most cases, this should allow the fire to extinguish itself.
- If you're unable to extinguish the fire safely, call Triple Zero (000).