Stay safe when barbecuing in Islington this summer

Islington Council is inviting residents to enjoy a barbecue this summer - and reminding them to be safe and considerate when cooking in the borough's open spaces.

In 2011 Islington was the first London borough to scrap its ban on barbecuing in parks, so residents without a garden can still enjoy outdoor summer cooking.

The recent heatwave has seen many people enjoying the chance to barbecue across the borough.

The council is asking residents to follow simple steps to be safe and considerate to others.  Top tips include:

• Before starting your BBQ, make sure it is on a stand and not placed directly on the grass.
• Consider using a ‘kettle’-type BBQ rather than a foil one - this reduces smoke levels.
• Barbecue in the centre of the fields - not near homes as smoke can disrupt residents’ enjoyment at home.
• Take some water to put out the barbecue once it’s finished; make sure barbecues are cool before putting them in the bin.
• Dispose of all litter properly, and recycle your rubbish wherever possible. Highbury Fields has special barbecue bins for barbecue litter.
• Keep children supervised around the barbecue at all times.

Cllr Claudia Webbe, Islington Council’s executive member for environment and transport, said: “Scrapping Islington’s barbecue ban has been very popular.  Most of our residents don’t have a garden and now they can enjoy a barbecue with family and friends.

“If people follow a few simple tips they can have a great time while staying safe and being considerate to others."