Fire safety outdoors: simple ways to stay safe in the sunshine

BBQs: great in gardens, not so great anywhere else

BBQs can be lovely when used safely — but only in the right setting. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Only use a BBQ in your own private garden

• Don’t use a BBQ on a balcony, in a communal area, or inside your home — even a small BBQ can cause a serious fire risk, and wind can blow hot ash onto nearby flats or dry grass

• Most public parks don’t allow BBQs, and many councils enforce this through Public Space Protection Orders

• Keep BBQs on a flat, non flammable surface and away from anything that could catch fire

• Let everything cool fully before moving or binning it — disposable BBQs stay hot for hours

Dry grass catches fire quickly in warm weather, and once flames take hold, they can spread fast. Fires put people, homes, wildlife, and green spaces at risk — so using BBQs responsibly really matters.

Balconies: enjoy the space, skip the flames

Balconies are lovely in spring and summer, but because they’re part of a larger building, what happens on yours can affect others. They are not designed for heat or open flames, and in a fire they can act like chimneys, helping flames move between homes.

To keep everyone safe, please avoid:

• BBQs

• Fire pits

• Gas canisters or other flammable items

• Storing things that could easily burn, like cardboard or spare furniture

• Dropping or throwing cigarettes from a balcony — it’s a common cause of fires

A clear, well kept balcony helps stop fire from spreading and keeps the whole building safer.

A few more easy tips

• Don’t leave flames unattended

• Keep children and pets at a safe distance

• If something doesn’t feel safe, trust your instincts and leave it

Keeping our homes and shared spaces safe is something we all play a part in — and it helps protect our buildings, communities, and the people who live in them.

If you spot something that doesn’t look safe, or you’re not sure what’s allowed, just get in touch with the Sparrow team. We’re here to help you enjoy your home with confidence — today and for the long term.

Visit our fire safety page for more helpful information.