Fire service warns against single-use barbecues after Bleaklow blaze

A fire engulfed moorland above Glossop on Friday evening thanks to a discarded aluminium barbecue.

Fire crews from Glossop, Chapel-en-le-Frith and Whaley Bridge raced to the remote scene on Bleaklow, where they found a disposable barbecue among a large patch of burnt foliage. 

A statement from Glossop Fire Station was scathing of those responsible. 

“Please act responsibly. Do not light a bbq on the moors or open countryside.  

“To the wildlife whose habitat is lost, it’s devastation. To us, the firefighters and emergency services responding to put out the fire that you so carelessly started, intentionally or not, it takes our resources away from being available for life risk emergencies.” 

The recent spell of hot weather has left the moorlands dry, while stronger winds at higher elevations can easily carry smouldering embers onto the surrounding grasses and plants. 

Barbecues are banned from open countryside in the Peak District National Park, with Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO) in place that prohibit open fires, fireworks and sky lanterns.  

Those convicted of breaking an order can face a large fine or receive an on-the-spot fixed penalty notice. 

Single-use barbecues are also barred from some beaches in the UK, and while a more comprehensive ban was proposed in Parliament in 2022, there is still no legislation in place to prevent their sale. 

However, groups as diverse as Keep Britain Tidy and the British Mountaineering Council have called for disposable barbecues to be outlawed. 

“Don’t take a bbq,” is the advice from Glossop Fire Station to anyone walking on the moors. “Pack a picnic, enjoy the great outdoors, but leave our beautiful countryside for everyone to enjoy.”