Disposable barbecue warning after fire in Littlehampton waste collection van

Firefighters are reminding people to take extra care with disposable barbecues this summer, after a fire involving a waste collection vehicle in Littlehampton.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

With warmer weather forecast, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSFRS), Arun District Council and Biffa are reminding everyone planning on having a barbecue to make sure it is fully extinguished before safely disposing of it.

WSFRS was called to West Beach Car Park in Littlehampton shortly after 5.30pm on Sunday, June 6, to reports of a fire in the rear of the vehicle operated by Biffa, which officers believe was started after a hot disposable barbecue was put in a bin and left to smoulder.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A fire crew was able to put out the fire, as fortunately it was spotted quickly enough for it to be brought under control without significant damage caused to the vehicle.

Firefighters have issued a warning, urging people to make sure disposable barbecues are properly cool before putting them in a binFirefighters have issued a warning, urging people to make sure disposable barbecues are properly cool before putting them in a bin
Firefighters have issued a warning, urging people to make sure disposable barbecues are properly cool before putting them in a bin

The warning comes after a similar incident in Worthing earlier in the year, when a waste collection vehicle operated by Adur & Worthing councils was completely destroyed by a fire that began when a hot disposable barbecue was left in a bin.

Jim McGrath, WSFRS’s lead on waste fires, said: “It is really important that individuals consider the potential consequences and the impact that BBQs can have if they are not disposed of carefully and safely.

“We attend a number of fires where disposable BBQs and hot coals have entered the waste stream causing damage to both local and county waste infrastructure: from a park bin to a household waste facility.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Whilst purchasing and preparing the food for your BBQ, please also take the time to really consider how you are going to safely ignite your BBQ, cook your food on it and then dispose once finished - allowing time for it to cool down completely. Only at the point where you are totally confident that your barbecue poses no fire risk it should then be disposed of as waste.”

Damien O’Neill, Senior Business Manager at Biffa, said: “Refuse vehicles are a vital part of local services and can cost £150,000 to replace. Fire damage to a truck can also impact our ability to collect your rubbish and recycling.

“I would urge everyone to take care when disposing of used barbecues and make sure they are fully cooled before putting them in the bin.”

For more information visit: https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire-emergencies-and-crime/west-sussex-fire-and-rescue-service/home-fire-safety/seasonal-safety-advice-summer/