Burning gas produces carbon monoxide, a colourless, deadly gas that can accumulate quickly in confined spaces. Right: Floating aids must never create false security. Children’s confidence often develops faster than their swimming ability, thereby increasing risk of drowning. Photos: Shutterstock.com
As summer approaches, many families look forward to outdoor gatherings, beach outings and time spent with loved ones. Whether enjoying a barbecue in the garden or spending a day by the beach, a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable season.
Gas-fired BBQs: Enjoy the grill but avoid the risk
Gas-fired barbecues have become a popular alternative to charcoal grilling in gardens, terraces, campsites and other open spaces. Yet, their improper use can turn a relaxed cookout into a serious accident.
These are things you should look out for when buying a gas barbecue:
• Traceability information, including the manufacturer’s details, and, in the case it is imported from a third country, the local importer’s details as well;
• Gas information, including the type of gas and corresponding supply pressures and appliance category. The acronym for ‘Malta MT’ should be included for the respective gas category;
• The barbecue should be CE-marked and followed by a four-digit number indicating the control body and the last two digits of the year of certification, for example CE 0063 25.
If the barbecue does not have numbers following the CE mark it most probably lacks third-party certification controls, possibly rendering the product unsafe.
• Warnings should be displayed on the barbecue and should be visible during its use, including “Use outdoors only”, “Read the instructions before using the appliance” and “WARNING: accessible parts may be very hot. Keep young children away.”
• The barbecue should be accompanied by a printed manual including user instructions for its assembly, use and maintenance.
• The barbecue should be easy to maintain and easy to keep clean from greases.
Why gas barbecues can be dangerous
Unlike charcoal grills, gas-fired barbecues rely on pressurised fuel – a propane butane mix (LPG) in Malta’s case. While highly efficient, these gases are extremely flammable. A small leak from a damaged hose, a loose connection or a faulty regulator can quickly create a dangerous situation.
One of the greatest hazards is the build-up of unburned gas. If the burner fails to ignite but the gas continues flowing, an explosive cloud can form inside the grill. When ignition finally occurs, the result can be a sudden fireball capable of causing severe burns.
Grease build-up is another common danger. Fat and food residue collecting inside the barbecue could ignite unexpectedly, leading to flare-ups that spread rapidly.
• Safety tip 1: Inspect before every use – Check hoses for cracks, brittleness or signs of wear. Ensure all connections are tight and secure. A simple soap-and-water test could reveal leaks – bubbles forming around fittings would indicate escaping gas. Replace hoses and regulators according to the respective manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Safety tip 2: Keep the lid open when lighting – Always open the lid before turning on the gas and attempting to ignite it. This prevents dangerous gas accumulation inside the grill. Should the barbecue not ignite after a few attempts allow it stay with control knobs in the off position for some time before attempting once again to ignite it in order to ventilate any accumulated gases.
• Safety tip 3: Use outdoors only – Gas barbecues should never be used indoors, inside garages, tents or enclosed balconies. Burning gas produces carbon monoxide (CO), a colourless and deadly gas that can accumulate quickly in confined spaces. CO cannot be detected by humans and could be fatal at high levels.
Floating aids: Helpful but not lifesaving
Water can be enjoyable for children but also carries serious risks. Floating aids improve confidence, yet many parents misunderstand what they can and cannot do. They are not lifesaving devices and their correct use, under supervision, is essential to prevent accidents.
Proper supervision is always required; no floating aid makes a child ‘safe’ without it. Keep non-swimmers within arm’s reach, avoid distractions and supervise them continuously even in shallow water. At gatherings, assign a water watcher, as drowning is silent and can happen in seconds.
When choosing floating aids, check their age and weight limits, safety instructions, and look for durable materials, secure valves, proper fit and reputable manufacturers. Avoid thin plastics, poor seals and missing labels.
Floating aids should support learning and should not replace swimming skills. Build real water confidence through gradual reduction of aids, supervised practice and teaching independent floating and hazard awareness.
Common mistakes include assuming safety from floaties, leaving children unattended even briefly, using damaged inflatables, allowing children to go into deep water beyond their ability and overestimating their skills. Confidence often develops faster than ability, thereby increasing risk.
Floating aids must never create false security. Safety depends on supervision, suitable equipment, swimming education and awareness. They assist but do not protect on their own.
Manufacturers must ensure safe products but parents and guardians must also follow instructions and use them correctly. Safe products and responsible use together ensure safer water activities.
Charles Tanti is a senior technical officer, Technical Regulations Division, MCCAA.
