
Firefighters were called out to a block of flats in St Helier last night, after a gas barbecue caught fire on a balcony.
Two fire engines arrived just after 8pm on Friday 15 August, and found the grill "well alight" outside a second-floor flat near Green Street roundabout.
The fire was extinguished before it spread to the building, and the flat's occupier suffered "minor burns" but did not need hospital treatment.
Islanders have been warned not to use barbecues close to buildings. Watch Commander Richard Ryan said: "We would strongly urge all residents to refrain from having barbecues on balconies.
"The risks are significant — not only to yourself, but to other residents in the building. Fires in such locations can spread extremely quickly and put many lives at risk.
"We encourage everyone to enjoy barbecues in safe, open outdoor spaces, well away from buildings and flammable materials."
Jersey Fire & Rescue also re-iterated its advice to safely enjoy a summer barbecue:
- Never use barbecues, gas or charcoal, on balconies.
- Ensure barbecues are placed well away from buildings, sheds, fences, and trees.
- Always keep water or an extinguisher nearby when cooking outdoors.
- Never leave a barbecue unattended while in use.