Each summer, too many barbecue enthusiasts suffer preventable burns. As experienced safety experts emphasize, following key precautions and knowing emergency responses keeps your cookout fun and secure.
Use only firelighters to ignite the barbecue
Never use methylated spirits or similar liquids—they form a dangerous gas cloud that can flash into flames from the slightest spark.
Implement preventive safety measures
Keep a fire blanket readily accessible near the barbecue for immediate use if needed.
Know exactly what to do in an emergency
If someone’s clothing catches fire, minimize oxygen to the flames: Have them drop to the ground, roll, and cover with a fire blanket. Apply the blanket from the bottom up, avoiding the face to prevent flames from spreading upward.
Treat burns correctly right away
Cool burns immediately with lukewarm running water. Follow up with proper medical care as advised.
Also read: how do you care for burns? and tips to treat burns.
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