Summer is a great time to spend more time outdoors, whether that’s relaxing in the garden, hosting a barbecue or enjoying longer evenings.
A few simple precautions can help keep you and your home safe.
BBQ safety
Barbecues can be enjoyable, but they also present a fire risk if not used carefully.
Remember to:
- Keep barbecues well away from buildings, fences and sheds
- Never use a barbecue indoors or on balconies
- Keep children and pets away from cooking areas
- Never leave a lit barbecue unattended
- Ensure coals are fully extinguished before disposal
Fire pits and outdoor heaters
If you use fire pits or outdoor heaters:
- Position them on stable ground
- Keep them away from combustible materials
- Never leave them unattended
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
Garden safety
Summer is a good opportunity to check your outdoor areas.
Look out for:
- Uneven paths or paving slabs
- Overgrown plants blocking paths
- Loose fence panels
- Slippery decking or patios
Water safety after a holiday
If your home has been empty for a week or more, it’s important to take a few simple steps when you return to help keep your water safe. When water isn’t used regularly, it can sit in pipes and outlets for days or weeks at a time. This can create conditions that allow bacteria to grow. If you’ve been away from home for a week or longer, we recommend flushing your water system when you return.
When you get back from holiday:
- Run all hot and cold taps for at least five minutes
- Turn taps on slowly to avoid splashing water
- Flush toilets several times
- Run showers for at least five minutes
- If possible, remove the showerhead before flushing
- If you cannot remove the showerhead, wrap it in a towel or cloth
- Leave the room while the shower is running and keep the door closed
Open windows and home security
Many people leave windows and doors open during warm weather.
While enjoying fresh air, remember to:
- Close accessible windows when leaving your home
- Avoid leaving valuables visible near open windows
- Ensure doors are locked when you go out
- Keep sheds and outbuildings secure
Enjoy summer safely
Taking a few simple precautions can help you enjoy the summer months while keeping your home, family and neighbours safe.
