As people start to enjoy the warmer weather, advice has been issued to try and reduce the risk of accidental fires.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service list some basic tips for the barbeque season:

. Make sure that your barbeque is placed on clear level ground where it will not tip over.

. Use approved barbeque fuel or firelighters to light it, never petrol or paraffin.

. Keep barbeques away from the house, shed, fences, garden furniture or overhanging trees and shrubs.

. Keep children and pets well away from the cooking area.

. Don’t leave your barbeque unattended at any time.

. Empty any spent ash on to bare soil, not into a dustbin.

. If you are lighting a barbeque in the countryside or on the beach – check beforehand that it is an authorised area.

. When using a disposable barbeque make sure the coals are completely cold before throwing them away.