Help us keep our beaches safe and clean

Help us keep our beaches safe and clean

Think twice before using a disposable BBQ

Think twice before using a disposable BBQ and only use them in areas with signs that say you can. Conwy County Borough Council prohibits unauthorised BBQs and open fires on our beaches and in public spaces. We understand that some people ignore the rules that are in place for public safety.

A message from our Harbours team:

Disposable barbecues present serious, hidden dangers on beaches. The most severe hazard is the risk of third-degree burns. Sand acts as an insulator, trapping deep heat for hours or overnight. When buried, these BBQs create scorching, invisible traps that have severely injured adults, children and animals.

The significant dangers and negative impacts include:

• Hidden scorched sand: Sand can stay hot long after the flames appear to have died down. Walking over or stepping on buried or discarded BBQs causes severe, lasting injuries.
• Severe lacerations: Once cool, the sharp metal edges of the discarded trays can cause deep cuts and severed tendons on bare feet.
• Toxic bin fires: Throwing a smouldering disposable BBQ into standard litter bins melts plastic and causes fires.
• Harm to the ecosystem: Discarded charcoal can release toxic chemicals into the sand, and leftover food scraps attract scavenging wildlife.
• Widespread wildfires: Sparks carried by coastal winds can easily ignite dry dunes, grass, or nearby structures.

Safe beach BBQ practices:

1. Never bury the BBQ. Let it burn out completely on a raised, non-flammable surface.
2. Extinguish thoroughly. Pour ample water over the coals to ensure the heat is entirely killed.
3. Wait for the tray to cool entirely before taking it home to dispose of.