Footy, BBQs & fire pits – play it safe this weekend, urge fire services

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As Victorians gear up for the AFL Grand Final long weekend, fire services are urging households to stay safe around barbecues and fire pits.

Whether it’s cooking on the BBQ, gathering around a fire pit, or celebrating with mates, fire safety needs to be part of the game plan.

The warning follows a recent house fire in Sorrento caused by an electric smoker. Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews battled the blaze on Vision Avenue late on Friday 5 September, with firefighters working through the night before it was brought under control early Saturday.

Sorrento Fire Brigade Captain Michelle Croad said the incident is a timely reminder.
“You might think you’ve used a BBQ countless times with no risk, but they can quickly turn dangerous,” she said. “A few simple precautions could prevent you from losing everything.”

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan urged Victorians not to drop their guard. “Fire pits create great atmosphere, but they must be placed on a flat, fireproof surface and kept well clear of anything flammable,” he said. “Always leave at least three metres of space, keep water nearby, and never leave fires unsupervised.”

Last year, CFA and FRV responded to more than 960 barbecue and recreational fire incidents across Victoria. FRV Deputy Commissioner Joshua Fischer said many households fire up their first BBQ of the season during the long weekend.

“Before you cook that first snag, make sure your BBQ is match fit,” he said. “Just like in footy, one careless move can cost you the game—and put your family at risk.”

Energy Safe Victoria CEO Leanne Hughson also reminded people to check their gas barbecues before use. “Inspect the cylinder, hose and connections, tighten all fittings, and do a quick soapy-water test for leaks,” she said. “Taking a few minutes to check could make all the difference.”

Fire Pit Safety Tips

  • Place pits on stable, non-flammable surfaces with at least three metres clearance.
  • Check fire restrictions; never light fires during the Fire Danger Period or on Total Fire Ban days.
  • Never leave a fire unattended. Fully extinguish with water before leaving or going inside.
  • Keep 10 litres of water or a hose nearby, and ensure an adult is always supervising.
  • Don’t use petrol or accelerants.

Barbecue Safety Tips

  • Test for gas leaks with soapy water—bubbles mean leaks.
  • Use LPG appliances with modern fittings and exchange cylinders only through reputable suppliers.
  • Never barbecue indoors. Keep clear of walls, fences and flammable materials.
  • If a fire starts, turn off the gas at the cylinder if safe to do so. If not, call Triple Zero (000).

For more information, including a free soapy-water test bottle, visit Know the drill before you grill | Energy Safe Victoria.

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