Disposable Barbecues

Thank you for contacting me about the use of disposable barbecues.

I understand your concerns about fires caused by disposable barbecues; however, I am not aware of any plans to ban them.

Especially in the summer, it is important that everyone follows the Countryside Code , and that in the open countryside people do not light fires or use disposable barbecues which can be devastating to people, property and habitats. I am pleased that Natural England has produced a poster for land managers to use on site to remind people of the Countryside Code, and I am told that this has now been distributed. 

I am also pleased that the Government is working to raise awareness of the impacts of domestic burning and has produced guidance which also asks people to be considerate towards others when using barbecues. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs works closely with Natural England and the Home Office to tackle such issues, and there are also operational plans in place with fire services as well. 

In addition, the Home Office works in close partnership with local fire and rescue authorities to promote a range of fire safety messages through the national Fire Kills campaign. Messages on outdoor fire safety, including the fire risks related to barbecues, are included within the educational materials made available to fire and rescue authorities to support local activity.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.