Safe sizzling!
Published
BBQ time is here again! But while you are sizzling up a storm, don’t forget the safety measures that it’s wise to take especially when small children are around. Antiseptic brand Savlon has some top tips on avoiding incidents at summer BBQs.
Choose a suitable location
It may sound obvious, but many people don’t remember the importance of placing a barbeque in a suitable location. Make sure the BBQ is well away from any play equipment and garden games. To reinforce where a safe space is, ask the kids to help mark out a no-go zone around the BBQ with chalk – this should be approximately 2 metres.
Consider height
A lot of us will be using disposable barbeques this summer. Although these are more convenient, they can pose a threat for children as people tend to place them on the floor when cooking. If using a disposable BBQ, make sure it is elevated– simply placing it on a heat proof table reduces the risk of an accident.
Keep the kids entertained!
Whilst barbequing, it’s easier if children are occupied and playing, rather than being close to the chef. If your garden is too small to host a BBQ safely, maybe suggest another adult take the kids to play in the front garden or to the park during grilling.
Know your nearest water source
Whenever you host a barbeque, you should be familiar with where you can find water. Make sure you know the location of the outside tap in case of any accidents. If there isn’t an outside tap, have a bucket of cold water nearby.
Be ready to respond
Our first instinct is to panic in a first aid emergency but with burns it’s imperative you act quickly! Whatever the size of the burn, you must get it under cool, running water immediately. Before you do this, remove any clothing that’s in the way, using scissors rather than pulling if skin is stuck to the burn.
If it’s a child who has sustained the burn, explain that it will be uncomfortable as you will need to keep it under cold running water for 20 minutes (or until help arrives via 999). Don’t be tempted to stop the running water as it will help to ease the pain. Keep the rest of their body as warm as possible, while cooling the burned area. After at least 20 minutes of cooling under cool running water, try not to touch the burn, wrap it in cling film or a bag to prevent infection and seek medical help.
Savlon offer a range of soothing products that can help prevent infection, provide relief and aid natural healing of minor wounds, burns and scalds and skin reactions.
Visit www.savlon.co.uk
