Fault with barbeque causes fire

A fault with a barbeque caused a fire in the garden of a house in Middleton.

Fire-fighters from Heywood were called to Lowther Crescent in the Langley area at 6.10pm on Tuesday (27 March).

The fire, which started because of a fault with the large barbeque, spread to two windows and an area of decking.

Crews used a hose reel to put the fire out.

As the unseasonably warm weather continues, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service's (GMFRS) Head of Prevention Service, Dave Keelan is urging people to take care when using barbeques.

He said: "When the weather is hot, many of us like to enjoy a barbeque, but they can pose many dangers, so it's important to take care.

"You can protect yourselves by concentrating on what you're doing and making sure your barbecue is in good working order, as well as keeping a bucket of water nearby in case of an emergency.

"Never leave the barbecue unattended, never use petrol or paraffin to revive your barbecue, and never put ashes straight into a dustbin or wheelie bin.

"And remember to keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area."