Nothing says summer in New Zealand more than a sausage sizzle on a hot day, but it may pay to take a few precautions to help prevent accidental damage. We've put together a few helpful tips.
Where should I put my BBQ?
When using your BBQ, keep it away from buildings, hedges, or anything that’s potentially flammable should the wind pick up. Place your BBQ on a flat, stable surface and refer to the manufacturer’s specifications relating to minimum clearances away from combustible fuels.
Can I leave the hot BBQ unattended?
Never leave your barbeque unattended when you’re cooking. You’ll be less likely to cause a fire, and less likely to burn your sausages! Did you know a frying pan of oil, even on the BBQ, can ignite in less than 60 seconds?
How can I help my kids and pets stay safe around the BBQ?
You may want to consider introducing a ‘no-go zone’ to keep the kids and pets safe. Make sure they’re also supervised while the BBQ is on as well as when it’s cooling down.
What fire safety measures should I take once I've finished BBQing?
Once you’re finished, check you’ve turned the gas off properly or thoroughly doused the ashes before leaving it unattended. Make sure it’s cooled completely before putting the cover back on or moving it.
How should I clean my BBQ?
Thoroughly scrub the drip tray and grill with boiling soapy water and wipe any oil, fat or grease off the gas jets. If you’re after a time saver, line the drip tray with aluminium foil and put some fat absorber in the tray. This should cover you for about 10 barbecues.
How can I maintain my gas BBQ and test for gas leaks?
Check and maintain the fittings and connections on your BBQ and LPG gas bottle. A quick test to make sure there are no gas leaks is the soap bubble test. Turn the gas on and pour some soapy solution (1/4 cup of water and a squirt of liquid soap) over the valve. If bubbles form, you could have a gas leak and the cylinders O-ring might need replacing. Don’t forget to also check your gas bottles expiry date; this can be found stamped on the neck of your gas bottle. Remember, if your BBQ needs servicing or repairs, always ensure it’s done according to the manufacturer instructions.
How can I make my BBQ area safer from fire during New Zealand’s dry summer months?
Have some fire safety equipment positioned near the BBQ when it's in use. You'll probably want to get a fire extinguisher and learn how to use it. Already have one? Check it every year to see that it’s in good working order. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, a Class F extinguisher is best for extinguishing cooking oil and fat fires. A fire blanket is also useful for smothering these types of fires as well as wrapping around a person to smother clothing fires.
For more great advice, check out the Fire and Emergency NZ website.
Any questions?
Now’s a great time to review your insurance. We recommend checking your details are up to date and ensuring the policy and cover you’ve chosen is right for you and your insurance needs.
If you have any questions about your insurance, need to update your AA Insurance policies or would like a quote, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can find our opening hours and ways to get in touch with us on our contact page.
This blog provides general information only and is not intended to be a recommendation or personalised financial advice. Excesses, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply to AA Insurance Limited’s policies. Please check the policy wording for details of cover. The provision of cover is subject to the underwriting criteria that apply at the time.
