How to barbeque on your balcony
Unit occupants are warned to be careful when cooking on balconies and to check gas cylinders regularly to avoid fires or injury.
Archers Body Corporate Management managing director Colin Archer said each year LPG and barbecue fires were caused largely by wear and tear on gas hoses and burners or unsafe use of barbecues. “In such a confined space there’s a lot more to think about when barbecuing as the consequences of something catching alight or a gas bottle exploding are very serious,” Mr Archer said.
“Every year the Fire Service is called out to fires in unit complexes caused by barbeques that are faulty or have been used incorrectly. These fires can cause extensive damage to the property, or worse, injury or fatalities. It is up to bodies corporate to check communal barbeques, however barbeques on balconies are the responsibility of the tenant and must comply with by-laws.
“You should never use an LPG cylinder in a confined space and make sure the gas is turned off after use.”
Mr Archer said barbequing was a classic Queensland activity that should be enjoyed by all including unit tenants but they need to remind mindful of neighbours and safety by following a few tips:
1. Ensure smoke is not disturbing neighbours or damaging the walls or paint.
2. Ensure smells are not excessive. Positioning the barbeque in an area where there is adequate air flow will help with this.
3. Check to ensure the gas bottle and connections are safe, in good condition and checked by a professional regularly.
4. Ensure noise from visitors is within an acceptable level and ceases at a reasonable hour.
5. Ensure the balcony is not overcrowded and any rubbish from the BBQ and guests is not thrown over the balcony.
6. Ensure the balcony and barbeque is cleaned after use and food scraps are disposed of, these can attract pests or rodents.
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