86 disposable BBQs removed from sale following Trading Standards visits
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More than 50 traders across Walsall have been visited by Trading Standards following the introduction of a temporary ban on the sale and supply of disposable BBQs.
The visits were carried out shortly after the Government introduced immediate temporary restrictions on 14 August in response to the exceptional wildfire risk caused by the current drought and heatwave conditions. The statutory guidelines mean retailers should not make disposable BBQs available for sale, either in shops or online.
Trading Standards officers visited traders in Bloxwich, Brownhills, Walsall town centre, Pleck, Pelsall and Willenhall to provide advice and check that the new requirements were being followed.
Seven traders were found to still have disposable BBQs available for sale and were advised to remove them immediately. A total of 86 disposable BBQs were removed from sale.
Most of the traders visited had already stopped selling disposable BBQs, following the introduction of the temporary measures.
The action comes as Walsall, like other parts of the country, has experienced a number of fires during the current period of hot, dry weather, including incidents in Willenhall, Brownhills, Aldridge and Pleck.
“ The introduction of these temporary measures was followed quickly by our Trading Standards officers, who have visited more than 50 traders across the borough to provide advice and check that the new rules are being followed.
"It is encouraging that most traders had already stopped selling disposable BBQs, but where they remained available, officers acted immediately to ensure they were removed from sale.
"The current conditions mean that a small fire can spread quickly, particularly in dry grass and vegetation. We are asking residents to take care when enjoying our parks and open spaces and to avoid anything that could start a fire. “
Barbecues are strictly prohibited in all Walsall Council parks and green spaces.
Residents are also asked to help reduce the risk of wildfires by:
- Not lighting fires, bonfires or campfires.
- Disposing of cigarette ends safely and never throwing them on the ground or from vehicles.
- Taking care when using BBQs on private land and following current Government guidance.
- Taking all waste home or disposing of it appropriately.
Dry grass and vegetation can catch fire quickly, putting people, wildlife and the environment at risk.
The Government guidance is temporary and will be kept under review as drought, heatwave and wildfire risks change. Traders are advised to check the latest guidance on GOV.UK.
ENDS
