PEOPLE have been warned of the dangers posed by barbecues as the weather gets warmer.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service issued the warning after a gas-powered barbecue caught fire in Tiddington, near Thame, on Thursday.

Two fire engines were called to the blaze shortly after 6pm and arrived to find the owner had put it out. This stopped the fire from spreading to a thatched home nearby.

Control manager Terry Williams, from Thame fire station, said: “It is extremely important at this time of year to make sure all barbecue equipment is working properly before it is used and that all residents are aware of the dangers of using both gas and charcoal barbecues, especially after long periods of non-use.

“The rubber hoses for gas barbecues can perish if it has been exposed to sunlight or frost over the duration of the winter period. This incident could have led to a much larger fire, so I would urge people to follow my advice.”

The fire service said people should always read the manufacturer’s instructions and should make sure their barbecue is in good working order before using it.

Gas cylinders should be kept outside, away from direct sunlight.