Beach Barbecue Warning Issued After Bin Fire in St Ouen

Islanders are being urged to take greater care when disposing of disposable barbecues after a bin fire broke out in St Ouen last weekend.

The States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service (SJFRS) says incidents like this occur every year, often caused by barbecues that are still hot being left on beaches or thrown into bins. Officials stressed that such fires are entirely preventable but continue to pose risks to people, property, and the environment.

Firefighters are now reminding the public to be especially cautious as warmer weather approaches and the bank holiday weekend draws near. Phil Falle from the service said the issue has been ongoing for years and is easily avoided with simple precautions.

He explained that while many people are reluctant to take used barbecues home, they must ensure they are fully cooled before disposal. This can be done by allowing them to cool naturally or by thoroughly dousing them with seawater.

Safety guidance issued by SJFRS includes cooling the sand beneath the barbecue, as it can retain heat and cause burns, ensuring the barbecue itself is completely cold, and never placing a hot barbecue into a bin. Once cooled, it should either be taken home or disposed of safely.

Station Commander Mark Bailey-Walker added that disposable barbecues can remain hot for several hours. With the current dry and warm conditions, he urged everyone to stay vigilant and act responsibly to prevent further incidents.