FIREFIGHTERS have issued a barbecue safety warning in a bid to prevent accidents as the weather warms up.

"Every year we get called out to deal with barbecues," said Farnworth firestation crew manager Steve Coote.

"We want people to make sure they follow the manufacturers' guidance and make sure they stay safe.

"People are getting the barbecues out for the first time this year and they need to be careful lighting them."

According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents 1,800 people visit hospital each year following barbecue incidents, mostly for treatment for burns.

Petrol, meths or other accelerants should never be poured onto a barbecue.

Some of the most serious accidents happen when people do this and the barbecue 'explodes' in their face.

For more information and advice about barbecue safety visit www.rospa.com.