Braaing safely means taking more into account than what meat to toss onto the coals, says ER24’s Andre Bronkhorst. Bronkhorst advises that prior starting a braai or any other open fire, one should consider keeping a fire extinguisher close by.
Good ventilation is also essential as smoke and gases from a fire can possibly kill someone.
You should also ensure the weather conditions are conducive for a braai. If strong winds are expected, start the braai in an area where runaway fires can be avoided. The braai stand should not be in a position where it blocks the only escape in the event of a fire.
The braai stand should also be sturdy. You must be able to place some weight on the stand without it collapsing. Ensure it won’t topple over if bumped.
Also ensure there is no chance of burning coal falling out of the stand.
Bronkhorst said the safest way to start a fire is by using old paper or firelighters. “Liquid firelighters can be used but remember these may react differently from conventional firelighters.
“Some people prefer using petrol, diesel, alcohol or thinners but you should always keep in mind the structures and people around you and how the ignition of the fire will affect people and flammable materials around the braai area,” he added.
Fuel
Remember a fire started with fuel can transfer from the braai stand to the container holding the fuel. If fuel is poured and then lit, be cautious of the gas released. It can cause a larger flame than anticipated.
Providing an example of a braai that ended badly, Bronkhorst said, “A person threw fuel on a fire not realising the flame may transfer into the container. When the flame transferred into the container he tried shaking it to get rid of the flame. In the process he spilled burning fuel on his child and surrounding family members causing severe burn wounds to several of them. The house was also set alight,” he said.
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Wood
If you use wood make sure you choose wisely. For example, wood from the tamboti tree, part of the euphorbia family, should be avoided. Smoke from this wood can cause nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, severe stomach cramps and even death. Cedar wood should also be avoided, as its smoke may be harmful. Most wood from evergreen trees release more creosote and increase the possibility of poisoning and fires.
Children
Adult supervision is non-negotiable when children are around open fires. Children tripping and falling into or against an open fire resulting in serious burns is a possibility. Flying embers may also cause injuries to children.
“Unsupervised children may also play with fire and cause flash fires and severe injury to themselves and others. Children walking past braai stands may not think the stand is hot and accidentally place their hands on the braai resulting in severe burn wounds,” said Bronkhorst.
Every parent should educate their children about the danger of fires. Teach them what to expect, do and not do.
“Few people realise it but throwing sealed glass containers or plastic containers with some fluid in a fire can cause an explosion. The fluid in the container heats and lets off steam. This increases the pressure in the container causing it to forcefully rupture.”
Memorise the word PASS to remember how to use a fire extinguisher if needed. P – Pull. Pull the safety pin. A – Aim. Aim at the base of the flames (the burning material not the flames). S – Squeeze. Apply pressure to the handle to open the valve and release the extinguisher’s contents. S – Sweep. Move the extinguisher in a sweeping motion.
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