So you’ve saved up, bought yourself a house or unit and put your personal touch on it to really make it your own.
Congrats!
Be a shame if it burnt down then, wouldn’t it?
Well, according to Allianz Australia, this is a very real risk for many South Australians looking to entertain this summer, with new research revealing the humble barbecue could pose a serious threat this holidays.
According to its data, South Australia tops the nation for insurance claims linked to outdoor barbecue fires, with some claims reaching tens of thousands of dollars.
Concerningly, the research – which sampled 1000 Australian men and women aged between 18 and over 65 – revealed just one in three South Aussies check their barbecues before use, with almost 40 per cent of those they surveyed doing no seasonal maintenance on their barbecues at all, potentially putting themselves and their property in danger.
How good are barbecues? Not good enough to risk a house fire, I’m guessing …
Allianz Australia chief claims officer Luke Whenman said proper preparation could prevent a headache down the track, particularly when it comes to barbecues.
“Our homes are a hub of celebration and relaxation during summer, but they’re also vulnerable when left unprotected,” she said.
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“With claims often increasing over the summer period, it’s vital to put simple precautions in place such as inspecting your BBQ for leaks and faults, securing loose outdoor items to minimise storm hazards, and ensuring all doors, windows, and locks are properly secured before heading away.
Some fire on the meat is good. But fire on the house? Not good. And largely avoidable.
“These small steps can make a big difference in ensuring your home is well-maintained and you are able to enjoy the holiday season over summer.”
It pays to be prepared, as barbecue fires don’t discriminate.
In October last year, Sydney Roosters NRL coach Trent Robinson and his wife Sandra were airlifted to hospital after a gas explosion in the Hunter Valley.
According to reports, the three-time premiership winning mentor and his partner were injured when a gas bottle exploded at a property owned by former NRL CEO John Quayle.
The couple were cooking dinner when the gas bottle apparently exploded, causing burns to both.
“We were just having a barbecue and about an hour after we’d eaten, a gas smell was there,” Quayle said of the incident.
“Trent checked the knob, the knob ignited and it went off.”
Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson at Roosters HQ in Moore Park. Picture: Tim Hunter.
They were doused in cold water immediately before ambulances and a rescue helicopter were sent to the property and the Robinsons were airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in nearby Newcastle.
The couple were monitored in hospital for several nights for monitoring before being released.
Quayle and his wife were not injured in the accident.
Leading property renovator and founder of Ace Property Agency, Rebecca Cardamone, said checking and cleaning a barbecue should be part of a regular home-maintenance schedule.
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“For example, making sure you’re checking your smoke alarms every few months, or conducting seasonal checks such as servicing your air conditioner and inspecting your BBQ on the first day of the new season,” she said.
“These checks will then become part of your regular routine – allowing you to enjoy the holiday season without worry or concern.”
Don’t let your house end up like this because you didn’t check your barbecue before firing it up.
ALLIANZ’S TOP TIPS FOR A SAFE SUMMER
Cooling systems: Service air conditioners before peak heat; clean filters and check wiring; consider surge protection to prevent fusion damage; air your home on dry, sunny days to reduce humidity.
Outdoor entertaining: Inspect BBQs for leaks or faults; clean grease trays; check gas connections; store outdoor furniture securely to prevent storm damage.
Home security while away: Perform lock checks; install smart cameras or motion lighting; ask neighbours to monitor your property; trim hedges around entry points to maintain visibility.
General upkeep: Test smoke alarms at the start of the season; keep fire blankets and extinguishers accessible; check gutters and downpipes for blockages; secure loose items outdoors to minimise storm hazards.
Insurance readiness: Review your home and contents insurance policy regularly to ensure you are adequately covered.
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