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Home BBQ Fire Prompts Gas Safety Warning

06 January 2016

Victorians are being warned to look before they cook to prevent gas barbeque fires this summer.

The warning comes after a 13-year-old girl and her 50-year-old father were injured when a two-burner stove connected to an LP gas cylinder caught fire in the garage of their home on Wednesday.

The investigation found the hose from the cooker was not correctly connected to the gas bottle, causing gas to leak out and ignite.

While the pair are expected to make a full recovery, it could have ended in tragedy.

It is important to check all barbecues – whether new or old – and to get into the habit of checking them regularly.

Victorians should always remember to:

  • Use safe, refilled gas cylinders that are within the 10-year test period
  • Regularly check the gas hose/pipe connections are tight and in good condition
  • Get into the habit of checking for gas leaks using soapy water
  • Never use home-made gas hoses or connections
  • Store gas cylinders upright and away from heat – never store them in cars
  • Never barbecue indoors – always ensure adequate ventilation
  • Limit alcohol consumption when operating a barbecue
  • Keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby

More safety tips and visual examples of how to check connections can be found at www.esv.vic.gov.auExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio

“Emergency services respond to an average of one barbecue fire every day over summer, but there are some simple steps you can take to keep your family safe.”

“Victorians should always ‘look before you cook’ when using a gas barbecue. Putting soapy water on the hose connections is a quick and easy way to check for gas leaks.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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