Dorset Council and Litter Free Dorset urge retailers to suspend disposable barbecue sales during extreme heat

Dorset Council and Litter Free Dorset are calling on retailers across Dorset to temporarily halt the sale of disposable barbecues during periods of extreme heat and heightened wildfire risk, helping to protect the county's countryside, heathlands, coast and communities.

The appeal follows increasing concerns about the risk of fires being started by barbecues that are improperly used, discarded while still hot, or placed on flammable ground such as grass, heathland or woodland, especially during the recent heatwave.

Retailers are being encouraged to follow the British Retail Consortium's Voluntary Guidelines for Disposable Barbecues, which recommend that retailers suspend the sale of disposable barbecues when weather conditions create a significant fire risk.

Dorset's landscapes include internationally important heathlands, nature reserves, farmland and coastal habitats which can become particularly vulnerable during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather. Even a single spark or lingering ember can cause significant damage to wildlife habitats, threaten nearby properties, and put lives at risk.

With the recent period of extreme heat and another on the way this week, it is crucial that this risk is reduced wherever possible.

Councillor Nick Ireland, Dorset Council Leader, said: "Dorset is home to some of the country's most treasured landscapes and wildlife habitats. During periods of extreme heat, the risk of wildfire increases significantly, and we all have a role to play in reducing that risk.”

“We are asking those retailers who still choose to sell disposable barbecues to do so responsibly by following the British Retail Consortium's voluntary guidelines and temporarily pausing sales when conditions are particularly dangerous. This simple action could help prevent devastating fires and protect Dorset's environment, residents and visitors."

Emma Teasdale, Litter Free Dorset Coordinator, said: "Major retailers assure us that they follow the BRC guidelines, but last month we saw amber and red extreme heat warnings issued by the Met Office, and retailers continued to sell disposable barbecues that are clearly a fire risk. We are simply asking them to follow the voluntary guidelines they have already agreed to.”

“With the Fire Severity Index at Very High across much of Dorset – and further heat warnings being issued for the coming days – this is no more than what we should expect from responsible retailers.”

"By working together, retailers, residents and visitors can help reduce fire risk and ensure everyone enjoys Dorset's beautiful outdoor spaces safely."

The British Retail Consortium's voluntary guidelines encourage retailers to:

• Monitor weather conditions and local fire risk warnings.
• Suspend sales of disposable barbecues during periods of extreme heat or elevated wildfire risk.
• Display fire safety messaging and guidance for customers.
• Work with local authorities and land managers to promote responsible behaviour.

Dorset Council and Litter Free Dorset are also reminding residents and visitors to:

• Check local restrictions before using any barbecue.
• Never use disposable barbecues on heathland, grassland, in woodland or where signage prohibits them.
• Ensure barbecues are fully extinguished and cool before disposal.
• Take litter home and dispose of waste responsibly.
• Call 999 immediately if a fire is spotted.

The organisations are writing to retailers across Dorset asking for their support and encouraging them to follow the British Retail Consortium's guidance whenever weather conditions indicate an increased wildfire risk.

As warmer summers become more common, collective action from retailers, residents and visitors can play an important role in protecting Dorset's landscapes and wildlife from preventable fires.