News

Following the tragic death of a Tarneit man earlier this month – who was fatally injured when a firecracker exploded in his face during New Year’s celebrations – CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson is reminding all Victorians that fireworks are illegal without a permit and are a serious fire risk
 
“Illegal fireworks have the potential to start fires and cause serious damage to property, grass and bushland and most importantly threaten lives,” he said.

“Before lighting any open fire barbecues Victorians need to check the CFA website for any fire warnings or restrictions. Fires for cooking and warmth are not permitted in open air on total fire ban days unless they meet strict conditions.”

“People need to be sensible and recognise the risks, especially given the recent warm weather and dry conditions.”

Mr Ferguson is also urging all Victorians to ensure gas barbecues are in working order before firing them up.

“Barbecue lunches are a tradition among family and friends across the state on Australia Day. But we don’t want celebrations to be hampered if a fire breaks out,” Mr Ferguson said. 

“CFA and MFB are often called to attend barbecue-related incidents on holidays such as this, which can result in serious injury or even death if a barbecue hose has perished, the connections are loose or the cylinder has been damaged.”

MFB Chief Fire Officer Shane Wright said Australia Day was the perfect time for a family barbecue, but urged people to take caution as the latest figures from The Alfred Hospital show a surge in burns and scalds during the summer period.

"The group most at risk is the 20 - 29 year old age group, and it's predominately males who are admitted to hospital with burns as they are usually the ones tending to the barbecue," he said.

"Most accidents could be avoided if people take extra care, particularly when it comes to maintaining gas barbecues."

To keep safe with barbecues this Australia Day:

• Check the gas cylinder on your barbecue before you turn it on. A cylinder must not be refilled if it hasn’t been tested for more than 10 years or if the cylinder has been damaged. You can exchange gas cylinders at a reputable supplier
• Check the hose to make sure it has not perished
• Check the connections to make sure they are tight and that the O rings are in good condition and have not cracked or split
• Use your barbecue in a clear space. Never use it indoors or in a confined area and ensure there is adequate clearance
• Cook with barbecue utensils and wear an apron to protect from hot fat
• Remove excess fat from the barbecue after each use to prevent fires
• Do not use barbecues in windy conditions as the burners may blow out, risking a gas leak. Barbecues don’t have a safety device to turn off the gas if the flame goes out
• If a fire occurs, don’t try to extinguish the flames if it is not safe. Turn off the gas at the meter or cylinder but only if you can do so safely