Open flame constitutes a hazard that always carries the risk of serious injury!
Please pay utmost attention to the safety of yourself and others!
For our purposes, the term “Portable Fire Pits” refers to portable stoves, ovens, braziers and barbecues. In short, any portable containment system specially designed for holding a fire.
In-ground Fire Pits are located in the Fourth Field, see the Campsite Diagram.
Portable Fire Pits are permitted in ALL camping fields, First, Second, Third and Fourth, see the Campsite Diagram subject to the following stringent conditions:
Barbecues, Portable Braziers, Stoves, and Ovens
Welcome to Westermill Farm Campsite! For your safety and the enjoyment of all campers, please adhere to the following guidelines when using in-ground fire pits, barbecues, portable braziers, stoves, and ovens.
General Safety Rules
- Location and Setup:
- Only use fire pits, barbecues, braziers, stoves, and ovens in designated areas.
- Ensure the equipment is placed on a stable, non-flammable surface, away from tents, vehicles, and flammable materials.
- Avoid setting up under overhanging branches or near dry grass.
- Lighting Fires:
- Use only approved fire starters or kindling. Do not use petrol, paraffin, or other accelerants.
- Ensure a responsible adult is present at all times when using any fire-related equipment.
- Fire Control:
- Keep fires and flames small and manageable. Avoid creating large, uncontrollable flames.
- Have a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby to quickly extinguish any accidental fires.
- Never leave any fire, barbecue, brazier, stove, or oven unattended. Extinguish all flames completely before leaving the area.
- Smoke and Flames:
- Be mindful of wind direction to prevent smoke from bothering other campers.
- Do not burn materials that produce harmful fumes or excessive smoke.
- Children and Pets:
- Keep children and pets at a safe distance from fire pits, barbecues, braziers, stoves, and ovens.
- Educate children about the dangers of fire and the importance of fire safety.
- Charcoal Barbecues:
- Use only the necessary amount of charcoal (usually around 5 cm or 2 inches deep).
- Allow coals to burn down to a grey ash before cooking to avoid excessive smoke.
- Gas Barbecues:
- Store gas cylinders away from direct sunlight and frost.
- Ensure all gas connections are secure and check for leaks using soapy water before use.
- Turn off the gas supply before disconnecting the gas cylinder.
- Disposable Barbecues:
- Place disposable barbecues on non-flammable surfaces, such as gravel or sand, and never directly on the grass.
- Allow disposable barbecues to cool completely before disposal. Dispose of them in designated metal bins.
- Cooking Safety:
- Never leave barbecues unattended while cooking.
- Ensure food is cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Keep a safe distance from the barbecue to avoid burns and splatters.
- Preparation:
- Clear the area around the fire pit of any flammable materials, such as leaves, twigs, or dry grass.
- Use only seasoned wood or approved firewood. Do not burn rubbish, plastics, or treated wood.
- During Use:
- Keep fires within the confines of the fire pit. Do not allow flames to exceed 3 feet in height.
- Use a fire screen or mesh cover to contain sparks and embers.
- Extinguishing Fires:
- Allow fires to burn down naturally if possible. Extinguish any remaining embers with water, stirring to ensure all parts are cooled.
- Ensure the fire pit is completely cool before leaving the area or going to sleep.
- Disposal of Ashes:
- Once cooled, dispose of ashes in designated metal containers. Do not dispose of hot ashes in wheelie bins or on the ground.
- Setup and Use:
- Set up portable braziers, stoves, and ovens on stable, non-flammable surfaces.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe setup and use.
- Ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
- Fuel:
- Use only the recommended fuel types for your brazier, stove, or oven.
- Do not overfill fuel containers and keep fuel away from open flames.
- Cooking Safety:
- Monitor food while cooking to prevent burns and fires.
- Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
- Use heat-resistant gloves and tools to handle hot equipment.
- Noise Control:
- Respect the campsite’s noise curfew (e.g., no noise after 11 PM). Keep noise to a minimum, especially late at night.
- Avoid loud conversations, music, or gatherings around fire pits, barbecues, braziers, stoves, and ovens late at night.
- Consideration for Others:
- Be mindful of other campers’ comfort and safety.
- Keep the area around your fire pit, barbecue, brazier, stove, or oven clean and tidy. Dispose of all waste properly.
- In Case of Fire:
- Use the nearest fire extinguisher, water bucket, or sand to extinguish small fires.
- If a fire becomes uncontrollable, evacuate the area immediately and contact campsite staff or emergency services.
- First Aid:
- In case of burns or injuries, seek first aid immediately. Contact campsite staff for assistance and access to first aid supplies.
By following these guidelines, you help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone at Westermill Farm Campsite. Thank you for your cooperation and have a great stay!