Two injured by barbecue

3:48pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

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TWO people had to be taken to hospital after suffering serious burns at a barbecue.

Fire crews from Chesham and Amersham were called to the scene of the incident, in Beechcroft Road, Chesham, at around 6.45pm on Saturday.

A man and a girl were taken to hospital. An investigation into the incident is currently being carried out jointly by the fire service and police.

Following that incident - and another near Milton Keynes where five homes had to be evacuated after a barbecue fire - firefighters have issued a safety warning over the use of barbecues.

Terry Ridgley, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service's community safety manager, said: "Having a barbecue should be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, but cooking over hot coals can be hazardous.

"The consequences of not paying attention to a few simple safety rules can be catastrophic."

He advised people planning barbecues to keep a bucket of water or sand or a garden hose nearby in case of an emergency.

Mr Ridgley also said to make sure the barbecue is in good working order, particularly if it has not been used for a while.

He advised the barbecue site should be flat and well away from sheds, fences, decking, trees and shrubs, and children, garden games and pets should be kept well away from the cooking area.