An urgent warning to the public to not have barbecues on balconies has been issued by the London Fire Brigade after a flat fire on Gunnersbury Avenue in South Ealing yesterday (29 May 2023).
Part of a second-floor roof belonging to a flat above a shop was damaged by the fire. There were no injuries reported.
The Brigade was called at 6:40pm and the fire was under control at 7:07pm. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Acton, Chiswick, Wembley and Richmond fire stations attended the scene.
The Brigade has previously written to a number of manufacturers and retailers highlighting its concerns about barbecues which were being specifically marketed for use on balconies.
A Brigade spokesperson said: “Many balconies have combustible materials as part of their construction and there are often combustible items stored in outside spaces so if a fire starts, it can spread quickly. Another worry is that wind can fan or carry smouldering ignition sources such as cigarettes and embers from barbecues to lower or adjacent balconies.
“We understand people want to enjoy their outside space if they have it, but please don’t think it won’t happen to you, because it can.
“Don’t be the reason you and your neighbours end up looking for somewhere else to live because of your cigarette or barbecue.”
London Fire Brigade five ways to stay BBQ safe
Never use a BBQ – including disposables – indoors or on your balcony.
Be careful where you position your BBQ – we suggest on level ground, well away from anything flammable like sheds, fences, trees, or tents.
Don’t use petrol, paraffin, or any flammable liquids on your BBQ.
Carefully supervise children – little ones can all too easily trip and fall, while older children might hurt themselves trying to help.
Be pet-aware – dogs (and some cats!) love to snaffle sausages and can cause accidents getting under your feet. To be really safe, keep pets indoors, or at least out of the immediate vicinity of the BBQ.
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