Grilling season is no longer limited exclusively to the summer months. Grilling is far too popular for that, with young and old alike. Barbecuing season begins again as soon as the first spring sunshine appears, or the mercury climbs toward 20 degrees Celsius. Fire pits have even been specially created in the forests for the ultimate barbecue experience. But when choosing a location and lighting the charcoal, other factors are more important; risk isn't important. The main thing is that production continues. Many a barbecue has ended "hot" because of careless handling of open flames. But improper handling of fuels can quickly become life-threatening. Fire safety experts therefore recommend: Always place the grill on a solid surface.

Have suitable extinguishing agents ready. In the event of an emergency, a bucket of water or sand is suitable as an extinguishing agent. Better wet and dirty than lifelong burn scars. Keep a safe distance from flammable materials. Never use in a wooden gazebo or tent, on wooden floors or in enclosed spaces or on the balcony. Never leave the barbecue unattended and pay particular attention to ensure that children do not play in the barbecue area. Lighting charcoal takes time and patience; never light charcoal with petrol or spirit. Both liquids evaporate very quickly in the summer heat, forming a cloud of vapor that burns off like an explosion when ignited. Bystanders can suffer severe burns. Never pour flammable liquids, such as spirit, onto glowing or burning charcoal. It is particularly dangerous to spray flammable liquids from a bottle into the barbecue. There is a risk of flashback as the bottle always contains some liquid vapor. This then expands suddenly and sprays the entire flammable liquid across the grill, resulting in a 5-10 meter long jet of flame. Use grill gloves or long tongs. Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics while grilling.

When using a gas grill, check beforehand that the connections are tight. The connecting hose and the gas bottle must not be exposed to heat when grilling. If possible, do not grill in strong winds. There is a risk that embers will be blown away or that a gas grill will go out and gas will continue to escape uncontrollably. Dripping fat can ignite, so use aluminum grease trays. This is healthier because less benzopyrene is produced and reduces unpleasant smells. Never fight igniting fat with water, but rather smother grease fires (burning grill) with a fire blanket or fight it with a powder fire extinguisher. If burns occur, cool them immediately with water for a longer period of time. For children: A burn the size of a euro coin is a case for emergency medical attention. After cooling the wound, cover it with as little as possible germs. However, never use household products such as flour or similar. Only dispose of charcoal and ash when it has completely cooled down. Never put them in boxes or other flammable containers.

You have to be especially careful when children are around at a barbecue! Because children are curious. Fire is something very special for them: It smokes, it sizzles, something is happening! But unfortunately, it happens again and again that children are seriously injured while barbecuing. The reasons: Children cannot assess the danger. Adults are often careless. They concentrate on the fire and forget to look after the children. This is especially true when alcohol is involved. Adults often use dangerous tools to start the fire (e.g. gasoline, kerosene or spirits). However, the use of flammable liquids is the most common cause of serious accidents when barbecuing. Fumes are released which ignite explosively due to the heat and fire, creating a flash flame. This all too often catches children who are near the barbecue fire. Severe, life-threatening burns occur. If these are survived, lifelong scars remain. Therefore: Extreme caution when barbecuing. Always keep an eye on the children. Only use safe barbecue lighters, which are readily available! Teach children about the dangers of barbecuing at an early age and show them by example how to handle a barbecue fire properly. If an accident does occur: Spray the affected area with cold water. Call an ambulance. Seek medical attention even for minor burns. Caution! Even a fire that appears to be out still poses a risk: Serious hand and foot injuries can be caused by smoldering ash. So, even after barbecuing, the danger isn't over. In the event of a fire, call 112 immediately!