Dorset, Food & Drink | Posted on July 7th, 2026 | return to news

Plea for suspension of disposable barbecues in Dorset

Dorset Council and Litter Free Dorset are asking retailers to suspend sales of disposable barbecues during this heatwave.

With very high temperatures forecast for the coming few days, the plea has once again gone out for retailers to suspend disposable barbecue sales.

The appeal from Dorset Council and Litter Free Dorset comes as during periods of extreme heat there is a heightened wildfire risk, and they want to help to protect the county’s countryside, heathlands, coast and communities.

There are increasing concerns about the risk of fires being started by barbecues that are improperly used, discarded while still hot, or placed on flammable ground such as grass, heathland or woodland.

Retailers are being encouraged to follow the British Retail Consortium’s Voluntary Guidelines for Disposable Barbecues, which recommend that retailers suspend the sale of disposable barbecues when weather conditions create a significant fire risk.

Dorset’s landscapes include internationally important heathlands, nature reserves, farmland and coastal habitats which can become particularly vulnerable during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather. Even a single spark or lingering ember can cause significant damage to wildlife habitats, threaten nearby properties, and put lives at risk.

Cllr Nick Ireland, Dorset Council leader, said: “Dorset is home to some of the country’s most treasured landscapes and wildlife habitats. During periods of extreme heat, the risk of wildfire increases significantly, and we all have a role to play in reducing that risk.”

“We are asking those retailers who still choose to sell disposable barbecues to do so responsibly by following the British Retail Consortium’s voluntary guidelines and temporarily pausing sales when conditions are particularly dangerous. This simple action could help prevent devastating fires and protect Dorset’s environment, residents and visitors.”

Emma Teasdale, Litter Free Dorset coordinator, said: “Major retailers assure us that they follow the BRC guidelines, but last month we saw amber and red extreme heat warnings issued by the Met Office, and retailers continued to sell disposable barbecues that are clearly a fire risk. We are simply asking them to follow the voluntary guidelines they have already agreed to.

“With the Fire Severity Index at ‘Very High’ across much of Dorset – and further heat warnings being issued for the coming days – this is no more than what we should expect from responsible retailers.

“By working together, retailers, residents and visitors can help reduce fire risk and ensure everyone enjoys Dorset’s beautiful outdoor spaces safely.”