A fire that broke out on the Falmouth coastal path last night could have been avoided, resulting in a warning from the fire service.

A crew from Falmouth Fire Station was called to the cliff path at Swanpool Beach at 8.40pm, where a bin was on fire.

A fire service spokesperson said: “Firefighters determined the cause was due to the careless disposal of a barbecue. Fortunately, no-one was injured.”

The crew put out the flames with a bucket of water.

It has led to the fire service issuing a warning and advice on how to safely dispose of barbecues once they have been used.

A spokesperson said: “Although most barbecues present no problems, there have been examples of fires, serious injuries and deaths caused by the use of flammable liquids or sitting barbecues too close to fences, garden sheds, buildings or trees.

“Dispose of the charcoal safely after the barbecue has cooled completely.”

Other advice includes:

  • Never take a smouldering barbecue into a tented area or area with no ventilation as it will give off carbon monoxide fumes.
  • Ensure that the barbecue itself is stable and located on level ground.
  • Ensure that you are not wearing any loose clothing that could flap onto the lit barbecue and ignite.
  • Keep the barbecue well away from over hanging obstructions such as tree branches, and keep a safe distance from fences, garden sheds, tents and caravans.
  • Do not use any flammable liquid other than recommended barbecue lighting fluid. Never use methylated spirits, paraffin or petrol.
  • Keep children away from the barbecue when it is lit and after cooking has finished, as it may still be hot (as will the ground it has been sitting on).