Fools put the hot grill in the general trash right next to the grill bin

Firefighters have warned beachgoers about the dangers of disposing of a disposable barbecue incorrectly after crews rushed to tackle a blaze at a Cornish beauty spot. Firefighters from Padstow were called at around 7.32pm on Saturday evening (May 11) to a fire in Harlyn Bay.

When crews arrived, they discovered the fire was caused by a disposable grill that was improperly disposed of. The hot grill was placed in a general plastic trash can, which was next to a metal grill trash can.

Firefighters extinguished the chimney fire to prevent it from spreading. Beachgoers have since been warned to use appropriate bins when disposing of a barbecue to prevent accidental fires.

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Posting on social media, Padstow Community Fire Station said: “Crews were called to a bin fire in the car park for Harlyn Bay. The fire was found to have been caused by a disposable grill placed in the trash can, right next to the metal grill bin. If you use a disposable grill at the beach, please use the appropriate bins to dispose of them.”

Cornwall Fire and Rescue has a list of recommendations for safe use of disposable grills during the summer. They are as follows:

• Never take a smoldering grill into a tented area or hidden area with no ventilation, as the grill will emit carbon monoxide fumes.
• Make sure the grill itself is stable and on level ground and if you are anywhere other than your own garden – remember the Country Code.
• If it’s windy, make sure the wind is blowing away from you when you light the grill (just in case it lights).
• Be sure not to wear loose clothing that could catch fire on the hot grill and catch fire.
• Keep the barbecue away from overhanging obstacles such as tree branches and keep a safe distance from fences, sheds, tents and caravans.
• Do not use any flammable liquid other than the liquid recommended for lighting the grill. Never use methyl alcohol, paraffin or gasoline.
• Preferably use lighters. If you choose to use lighter fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and don’t spray on a hot grill – it could explode in your face.
• When lighting the grill, do so at arm’s length (rather like a firework) and do not put your face over the beam.
• Keep children away from the grill when it is on and after cooking, as it may still be hot. Make sure matches and lighters are out of reach of children.
• Discard the charcoal safely after the grill has cooled completely. Those using gas grills should check the gas lines before use and make sure the gas cylinder is connected correctly.

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