Warning kicks off barbecue weekend

FIREFIGHTERS have called on Geelong residents to check their barbecues ahead of grand final get-togethers.

While celebrations will look different with restrictions in place, acting CFA chief officer Garry Cook urged people to conduct a safety check before firing up the barbie.

“Before you throw on the snags and chops for grand final day or the Melbourne Cup, we’re asking you to check the connections on your gas barbie,” he said.

“Spending a few minutes to inspect the connection before you turn on the gas can keep you and your loved ones safe.

“And it means you won’t end up with a crew of firefighters crashing your barbecue.”

Mr Cook said the simple check involved spraying the hose and regulator connections with soapy water.

“Bubbles will form if gas is escaping,” he said. “If you’ve got any doubts about the connections, turn off the gas and replace the connection or contact a licensed gasfitter.”

Other safety checks included checking the state of the hose, removing excess fat after each use, having gas cylinders tested and using barbecues in a clear space.

Fire Rescue Victoria fire rescue commissioner Ken Block reminded people of other basic safety measures to help avoid a fire.

“Many fires start while cooking, so you should never leave cooking unattended,” he said. “It is also important that you take a few minutes to inspect the gas bottle and connection, and leak-test the connection to the gas cylinder every time you connect it.

“If your barbecue does catch fire, remember to call triple zero.”