With the warmer weather finally here, many of us are looking forward to enjoying time outside – whether that’s a BBQ in your garden, relaxing on the balcony or catching up with friends. But it’s important to enjoy it all safely, especially when fire and heat are involved.

Here are a few reminders to help keep you and your neighbours safe this season.

Balconies – shared space, shared responsibility

Having a balcony is a real bonus, especially in spring and summer. But because it’s part of a larger building, it’s important to remember that what you do there can affect others.

Please follow these simple rules:

• BBQs are not allowed on balconies – they’re a major fire risk and strictly not permitted.
• Do not store flammable items such as old furniture or household appliances.
• Don’t use decorative bamboo screens or anything else made of combustible material.
• If you smoke, always stub out cigarettes properly and use an ashtray – never flick them over the side.

It only takes one small spark to cause a big problem – let’s all help keep our homes safe.

BBQs – enjoy, but do it safely

Follow these safety tips when BBQing in your garden :

• Use your BBQ only outdoors, never in enclosed spaces.
• Place it on flat, non-decked ground, away from sheds, fences or trees.
• Use only recognised firelighters, never petrol or paraffin.
• Don’t leave it unattended, and keep children and pets at a safe distance.
• If you’re cooking, go easy on the alcohol – or better yet, leave it until after the BBQ.
• Let the BBQ cool completely before moving it – coals can stay hot for hours and emit carbon monoxide, even when out.

For more BBQ fire safety tips, check out the London Fire Brigade’s BBQ guidance and UK BBQ safety laws.

BBQs in shared communal areas or parks

While it may be tempting to take a BBQ into a shared communal area or public park, there are lots of reasons why it’s not a good idea.

Town & Country Housing does not allow BBQs in communal areas, and many local councils ban them in public parks – check your local council’s website for Public Space Protection Orders.

The risk caused by BBQs in public spaces has been highlighted by the London Fire Brigade, who say:

Grass can be very dry, and a fire can start and spread quickly. This puts people, homes, property and wildlife in danger.

Disposable BBQs pose serious risks:

• They can stay hot for hours and cause grass fires
• They may injure wildlife
• Hot coals can damage feet, even after removal
• If used on balconies, wind can blow hot ash to nearby flats or dry grass.

Let’s protect our shared spaces – take a picnic, but leave the BBQ at home.

Final reminder

Fire safety is a shared responsibility – and with a few simple steps, we can all enjoy the sunshine without putting anyone at risk.

If you ever have concerns about fire safety or want to check what’s allowed, we’re here to help.

Visit our Fire safety page, Call us on 01892 501480 or go to the Kent Fire and Rescue Service  for more information.