Fire and rescue teams are asking the public to take extra care when cooking outside, particularly when using barbecues, as part of a safety campaign.

For Outdoor Safety Week, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service are urging those planning on using fire pits and barbecues to be responsible, and take necessary safety precautions when enjoying the warm weather.

Will Richardson, prevention manager at Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, said: “It’s natural to want to go outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather with family and friends – many of us can’t wait to get the barbecue lit.

"We all know how tempting it can be to give stubborn coals a helping hand, but, please be patient and make sure you use the right tools for the job.

“And if you’ve planned a barbecue and the weather lets you down, don’t take the barbecue indoors or into a tent. In recent years, some people have sadly succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning as a result, so we are urging everyone to stay safe this summer.”

Safety tips issued by the service include; never leaving barbecues unattended or use them indoors, empty ashes on to bare garden soil, keep children and pets away from barbecues, keep a bucket of water nearby, and be responsible with drink when in charge of the fire.

Mr Richardson added: "This may seem a long list but most of these things are common sense.

"By far the biggest danger is the use of flammable liquids to light the barbecue, so prepare well in advance and light the charcoal early. Most of all, enjoy yourself safely.”

For more information on fire safety, visit www.gov.uk/firekills.