WITH the hot weather, more and more people will be reaching for the sausages and having barbecues.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service has issued guidelines to a safe event:

n Keep young children well away from the barbecue.

n Stand portable barbecues on an even surface and make sure they are away from the house, fences or shed.

n Use only approved lighter fuels, never petrol.

n Lighter fuels must only be applied before lighting.

n Remember to light your charcoal an hour before you commence cooking.

n Don't be over-generous with the charcoal.

n Be careful with fatty foods and never pour oil onto meat when it is cooking.

n After you have finished cooking, extinguish the burning coals. Then leave a period of time, to check that the fire is completely out.